This has been a devastating and historic year for wildfires in the American West. Having already burned over 5 million acres across California, Oregon, and Washington, the fires are spreading at an unprecedented speed and have left tens of thousands evacuated. Firefighting labor forces are stretched thin, which has delayed and prevented teams from addressing several blazes across the area. New Profit grantee-partner The Forestry and Fire Recruitment Program (FFRP) is on the front lines of battling fires across the region, employing an innovative model that provides job training and opportunities to returning citizens who were formerly incarcerated. 

FFRP and its leader, social entrepreneur Brandon Smith, are members of New Profit’s second cohort of Unlocked Futures grantee-partners. Unlocked Futures, which New Profit launched with Grammy Award-winner and activist John Legend and Bank of America, aims to break down barriers to successful reentry into society for millions of people returning from incarceration. These barriers—including lack of access to formal job training, limited housing options, and hiring restrictions due to criminal records—leave 60 percent of formerly incarcerated individuals unemployed one year after their release, contributing to the recidivism cycle that damages so many communities. Entrepreneurship is one of the most viable economic pathways for the formerly incarcerated to escape this cycle, live with dignity, and contribute positively to their communities. To learn more about the Unlocked Futures initiative, watch this video. To read about the second cohort of social entrepreneurs, click here.

FFRP has worked to shift employment policy in California surrounding formerly incarcerated firefighters—efforts that have recently impacted California legislation. Earlier this September, the California legislature passed a bill, AB2147, which allows former prisoners with limited felony convictions, or those who are considered low-risk, to become firefighters. As the West faced a significant firefighter staffing shortage, the bill came at perfect timing. “I am definitely pleased that the bill passed and I think that it is a great step in the right direction,” said Brandon Smith.

FFRP’s work could not be more critical—and dangerous. More than 30 people have died in the recent fires, and scientists predict that, as the climate continues to warm, forest fires will become more frequent and more devastating. It is essential that FFRP receives the support they need to thrive as a successful organization. We are proud to support their efforts as they continue to solve the issues at the forefront of our time. 

To learn more about FFRP, listen to their recent feature on BBC Newshour (starting at 30:00).