NFL Inspire Change: Growing To Give Back
Arnell Ransom came to the Urban League of Philadelphia's Out4Good Program in 2020 looking for employment assistance and social service supports. However, what he received was so much more. Mr. Ransom has been in and out of the prison system for 15 years, beginning with an initial 7-year prison term.
Throughout his incarceration, Arnell always took the opportunity to learn new trades. While incarcerated, Arnell earned certificates in painting, plumbing, and carpentry. Through learning and doing, Arnell realized along the way that he really enjoyed this type of work. When he returned home, he landed a job at Home Depot. Through his work at Home Depot, he was able to connect with contractors which allowed him to build a strong network and consistently showcase his strong work ethic and showmanship.
During the pandemic, Arnell was laid off from Home Depot. As a result of his network, he was quickly landed another role Demo Company, RLC, Incorporated. Committed to his overall growth, Arnell begin to seek out additional support measures to help keep him on track. This is how he came across the Out4Good Program.
Once enrolled, Arnell was very engaged. He was always the first to every class, slow to speak, but anxious to learn. Upon completion of the program, he expressed an interest in beginning his own business. With his strong work ethic, Arnell researched and learned about the many demo contracts available to minorities in the City of Philadelphia.
ResultWhile still in Out4Good, he reached out to Chase Bank to inquire about opening a business account and the steps necessary to get a business loan. Out4Good Counselors walked him through the process to obtain his LLC and he is now the proud owner of A-to-Z Construction!
Arnell went on to share his new success with his former employer, Demo Company, RLC, who helped him along the way. He was also able to secure multiple contracts with the city performing demo work on homes in South Philadelphia. In addition to building his own success, Arnell reached back and other participants from the Out4Good Program (Norman Tate, Ed Hill, Kenneth Gray, and Marvin Spence). Arnell is proof, that providing opportunities to one person can have a domino effect on the community. Through Out4Good’s work with helping create economic independence for Arnell, they were able to subsequently create economic opportunities for four other Out4Good graduates down the line.