THE OVERTOWN BEAUTIFICATION TEAM EMPOWERS THOSE IN NEED

In January 2018, Hardemon Lightburn walked out of prison for the first time in 14 years and never looked back. Today, Hardemon is determined to stay on track as he rebuilds his life and thrives in his career. Hardemon’s story of empowerment began on the day he was released from prison. Sporting a positive attitude, he returned to his hometown of Overtown, Florida with $50 dollars, a bus card, and a prepaid phone loaned to him from a family member. He was armed with persistence you can not put a price tag on. The same persistence led him to a life changing opportunity with the Overtown Beautification team, also known as the Blue Shirts. The Overtown Beautification Team, facilitated by Human Resources of Miami, Inc., is a program funded by the SEOPW CRA and provides on the job training in the areas of property maintenance and landscape services.

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There were several failed application attempts that couldn’t get him recognized above other qualified candidates with the Blue Shirts, however, with the assistance of SEOPW CRA Program Manager Nathaniel Joseph he was able to obtain a position on the Beautification team and fulfill his employment goal.

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Mr. Lightburn’s employment opportunity with the Blue Shirts was the start of his journey to personal accountability that would empower him to stay on track. Remaining drug free, employed and determined to accomplish his personal goals, he is a true success story. Since completing the Overtown Beautification Team’s one year program, he was able to purchase and pay off his vehicle, and is now employed full-time at the Overtown Youth Center, as a janitor. Mr. Lightburn is planning for his next milestone which includes renting a home of his own. Mr. Lightburn is currently a temporary resident at the Camillus House. He now enjoys the small things in life, like preparing a home cooked meal, receiving an honest paycheck, and opening a savings account.