Hope Building is a paid construction training and workforce re-entry program for people in substance use disorder (SUD) recovery. It is operated by the Housing Development Alliance (HDA) in partnership with local recovery providers in Eastern Kentucky.
If you are looking for information about income-based housing or HDA homeownership programs, please visit our Housing Help pages.
Eastern Kentucky sits at the epicenter of the nation’s opioid and substance use crisis. At the same time, our region faces a severe shortage of skilled construction labor and safe, quality housing.
Hope Building addresses both challenges at once.
As a transformational employer, HDA partners with Perry County Drug Court, Knott County Drug Court, Hickory Hill Recovery Center, and other recovery providers to offer paid, on-the-job construction training for men and women who are well along in their recovery journey.
Just as safe housing is essential to long-term stability, steady employment is one of the strongest predictors of sustained recovery.
Participants in Hope Building:
All trainees are expected to:
Comply with Hope Building program requirements
Remain actively engaged in their recovery programs
Meet workplace performance and safety standards
Trainees earn college certificates in:
Tutoring and financial aid support are available through HCTC.
Graduates leave the program with:
Industry-recognized credentials
A verified employment reference with HDA
Increased employability and reduced risk of relapse
Hope Building is designed for long-term systems change, not short-term intervention.
By combining workforce development, recovery support, and housing production, the program:
Strengthens local labor capacity
Improves recovery outcomes
Rebuilds Eastern Kentucky’s housing stock
Creates a pipeline to permanent employment
As defined by SAMHSA:
"Recovery is a process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self-directed life, and strive to reach their full potential."
Hope Building puts that definition into practice.
Hope Building participants are referred by partner recovery organizations. All trainees have reached an advanced stage in their recovery and are recommended by program directors or counselors.
Recovery providers interested in partnering with Hope Building are encouraged to contact us.
Individuals currently in recovery who are interested in the program should speak with their recovery or Drug Court program director.
Homes constructed through the Hope Building program are:
Sold on the open market
Available to any qualified buyer
Not income-based or subsidized
Hope Building is made possible through critical grant funding and partnerships, including support from:
Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC)
Just Transition Fund
Local recovery and workforce partners
Continued investment ensures the program can expand its impact and serve more individuals and communities.
To learn more about Hope Building or partnership opportunities, contact:
Shannon Gabbard, Program Director
606-436-0497
