PREVIOUS PROJECTS

When families in St. Francis County faced the challenge of unstable housing, Andre Stephens saw more than broken homes—he saw opportunities for restoration. Through the Rehab Housing Program, 35 homes were repaired, while the Self-Help Housing Initiative brought together families who helped build 21 new homes of their own. These were more than just houses; they were foundations for new beginnings.

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But Mr. Stephens didn’t stop there. With the launch of the Affordable Housing Program, 20 brand-new homes were built and sold to low-income families, helping them transition from renting to homeownership. His philosophy was simple—safe and stable homes lead to stronger communities.

Believing that the next generation is the key to sustained progress, Mr. Stephens spearheaded the AmeriCorps VISTA Internship Program, offering college students hands-on experience in economic development and nonprofit work. Interns from across the country came to St. Francis County, learning the importance of community-driven solutions while working on real projects like housing development, media training, and grant writing.

Andre Stephens knew that financial independence starts with opportunity. Through the People Realizing Employment Possibilities (PREP) Program, he helped hundreds of individuals transition from welfare to full-time employment. The program provided stepping-stone jobs, internships, and permanent placements, giving participants the skills and confidence they needed to build a future for themselves and their families.

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One young man, Xavier Williams, came into the program uncertain about his future. Under Mr. Stephens’ mentorship, he not only gained valuable work experience but also discovered his potential. Like many others, Xavier left the program with a career path and a newfound sense of purpose.

Long before technology became an everyday necessity, Mr. Stephens recognized the digital divide affecting underserved communities. He created the Cyber Café, a space where young people learned digital storytelling, computer literacy, and even website development. Youth from St. Francis County, many of whom had never touched a computer before, were soon crafting their own stories, building web pages, and dreaming bigger than they ever had.

One of Mr. Stephens' most ambitious projects was the St. Francis Assisted Living Center, a $5.7 million facility designed to provide a dignified, affordable home for the elderly. Facing numerous financial and policy roadblocks, he fought for seven years to turn an empty field into a thriving community for seniors. This center stands as a beacon of security and care, offering its residents not just a place to stay, but a place to truly live.