"The FSET Program gave me the tools I needed to get back on my feet.”
When Briar first came to our office, he didn’t know a single person. Fresh out of the Jackie Nitschke Center, a local rehab facility, he was trying to rebuild his life in a completely unfamiliar place.
“I was kind of lost,” Briar recalled. “You and the FSET Program gave me the tools I needed to get back on my feet.”
Starting with the Basics
Through the FoodShare Employment and Training (FSET) program, Briar began with the essentials—clothing, shoes, gas vouchers, and bus passes. These practical tools gave him the stability to start looking for work and moving toward his goals.
Briar knew he wanted more than just a job—he wanted a career helping others who have faced struggles like his. His plan was straightforward: find steady employment to build his finances, then keep an eye out for opportunities to serve others in recovery.
Building Momentum
FSET staff worked alongside Briar to make that plan a reality. They provided scrubs for his new job, helped with transportation, and gave him the support network he had been missing since arriving in Green Bay. Little by little, Briar’s cautious optimism grew into genuine confidence.
Once withdrawn and depressed, Briar began to open up. His natural empathy—especially toward people with alcohol and other drug abuse (AODA) challenges—became a strength he could share with others. Now, he greets the future with a smile.
Looking Ahead
With a stable job and the essentials in place, Briar’s next goals are clear: get a car and his own apartment. His journey isn’t over, but he’s walking it with determination and hope. Hear about Briar’s journey in his own words in this heartfelt and inspiring video.
FSET in Brown County helped Briar do more than find work—it helped him find his footing, his purpose, and his community.
If you or someone you know is looking to overcome obstacles and build a better future, the FSET program is here to help. Learn more about how we connect people to resources, employment, and long-term success.
