Basil Johnson

Basil Johnson was the first enrollee in NADAP´s Aspire Case Management Program in 2007. At the time he was homeless, unemployed, chemically dependent, and estranged from his family.

Aspire provided the support that Basil needed to accomplish his personal goals. Since his admission into the program, Basil has maintained sobriety for over one year, completed an internship in the food service industry and attended a culinary training program to become a chef.

Basil also volunteers at The Bowery Mission feeding the homeless in his quest to help others. In addition, he has reunited with his family and they have provided him with the support so vital in his recovery efforts. Mr. Johnson was a recipient of a 2008 Spirit of NADAP Award presented at the Agency´s Annual Luncheon.

Maria Paola Torres and Maria Fernada Torres

Twin sisters Maria Paola Torres and Maria Fernanda Torres, emigrated from Ecuador and are role models demonstrating what can be accomplished with focus, determination, and services from NADAP´s Yonkers Employment Center (YEC).

The sisters came to the YEC for employment and training assistance; they were determined to become school bus drivers like a respected family member already employed in that occupation. At YEC, an Employment Specialist helped them in selecting a school for Commercial Drivers License (CDL) training. Maria Paola and Maria Fernanda successfully completed their training and obtained their CDL license. They are employed full time by a bus company in Tarrytown, NY.

“We want to express our sincere gratitude for all the services we received from the Yonkers Employment Center and the positive impact it has had on our lives” said Maria Paola. Both were recipients of a 2008 Spirit of NADAP award presented at the Agency´s Annual Luncheon.

Robinson Cruz

Robinson Cruz came to NADAP with limited education after being incarcerated. He obtained his GED and all of his work experience while involved in the legal system.

In September 2007, Robinson enrolled into the Employment and Community Reintegration Program in NADAP´s Comprehensive Employment Services Program. While at NADAP, he learned how to conduct an independent job–search, develop a resume and effectively respond in an interview. Mr. Cruz also learned how to retain his job, once employed.

Robinson obtained employment in October 2007 in maintenance services for a Manhattan Business Improvement District. He is still employed and extremely happy with his new occupation and newfound confidence. Mr. Cruz was a recipient of a 2008 Spirit of NADAP Award presented at the Agency´s Annual Luncheon.

Lance Taylor

Lance came to NADAP after substance abuse had eroded his self-esteem, damaged relationships with family and friends, and finally resulted in several years of incarceration.

At NADAP, he went through the steps to prepare for work. He found the right job opportunity and interviewed successfully. He has been employed more than a year as a maintenance engineer.

“I feel like I'm responsible and reliable now,” he said. “I am grateful to NADAP for helping me to stay focused. They had faith in my ability to overcome my past.”