A Step to Freedom (ASF) was founded in the Summer of 1991 by Kenneth Croom when he found himself struggling to find resources and support after being released from prison. Despite having no formal training, Kenneth had passion, commitment and an entrepreneurial spirit, and leveraged every ounce to form an organization dedicated to providing justice-impacted men with a safe place to lay their head and resources to “Take the first step to building a new future.”
Since its inception over 30 years ago, ASF’s primary focus has always been to provide justice-impacted and homeless individuals with a safe and sober living environment and the support and resources to help them reach self-sufficiency. Today ASF provides transitional housing, wrap around programs and supportive services that enable participants to free themselves by circumventing the barriers.
As a socially responsible organization, we are dedicated to making a difference. We actively engage in social responsibility initiatives, community outreach programs, sustainability practices, etc. to contribute to a better world. We invite you to explore our website to learn more about our programs, outreach, and success stories. If you have any questions or inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact us. We look forward to partnering with you and making a positive impact together.
With a strong commitment to ending homelessness, we strive to make a positive impact in the world. Through Interim Housing, ECM, Housing Navigation, Workforce Development and Family Reunification, we aim to transform and rebuild lives. Our team of lived-experienced professionals brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table.
ASF is committed to advancing inclusivity and equity in all aspects of its operations, from our core mission and programs to hiring practices and organizational policies. We create a safe, welcoming, and nurturing environment for all program participants, regardless of sexual identity, sexual orientation, history of substance use, or mental health status. We encourage individuals to participate fully and have access to our services, employment opportunities, governance structures, and volunteer roles.
Kenya, in partnership with ASF’s board of directors, continues her father's passion and commitment to investing in the people and community of South LA by addressing psychosocial issues that perpetuate harmful cycles, including trauma, lack of coping skills, life management skills, educational attainment, and job readiness skills.
Our mission is to transform the lives of justice-involved individuals who struggle with homelessness, substance use addiction and/or mental health issues by providing a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment to heal, break cycles, and thrive.
Approximately 4,000 single, adult BIPOC men disproportionately affected by incarceration, homelessness, substance use disorders (SUD), and mental health challenges.
Career case management and job placement activities, as well as opportunities for work-based learning, on-the-job training, industry certificates and credentials, pathways to apprenticeships and the development of career pipelines.
We hire staff that reflect participant demographics and have similar backgrounds and lived experiences, and/or are strong advocates for homeless and justice impacted individuals.