Roots of Renewal is a community development non profit working in New Orleans to break cycles of poverty and crime. The organization employs formerly incarcerated young men to renovate blighted properties in Central City, one of the most dangerous and impoverished communities in the city. While working on the property, the program participants receive hands-on job training from experienced contractors, carpenters, and other construction specialists. They also receive wrap-around case management and participate in professional development workshops so that they are ready for permanent, meaningful employment upon their graduation from the program. When the house is finished, it is sold to a first-time home buyer at an affordable price. Roots of Renewal recently completed its successful pilot round with six formerly incarcerated young men, and the fellows look forward to scaling the venture in the coming years.