The regret of not graduating high school is among the strongest felt in my life. What held me back was not a lack of intelligence, or an attention deficit, but the ongoing war within myself of good versus evil. A war likely instigated by my adolescent introduction to drugs, alcohol and violence.

Until landing in my trade, my anger and disregard for life had me abusing drugs and alcohol at a very young age. It also helped to land me in juvenile probation for most of my teenage life. Furniture and woodworking saved my life from the path of destruction laid out before me.

Although not knowing it at the time, I had found an outlet for my anger. There's a sense of pride and accomplishment found in repairing furniture, and the instant gratification found in finishing and woodworking gave me what I needed to become a man.

My plan with the Growth Rings Outreach Program is to reach troubled youth and teens with my trade and experiences in life. Hopefully reaching others like myself, with early exposure to drug, alcohol and early childhood violence, through my trade.

We are also teaching woodworking programs through Sober Living Facilities and Treatment Centers, helping anyone with their progression to long-term recovery. I believe it's only right to give back to the trade that helped save my life.

Below are links to businesses and organizations involved. Please check them out and feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns:

Frank Leblanc, Owner and Craftsman at American Pride Woodworking
FRANK@APWNH.COM
(603) 489-8918