A Chance to Shine (ACTS)

CAO: Alan K. Archer

Population greater than 50,000

For individuals experiencing homelessness, securing stable employment can be one of the greatest barriers to rebuilding their lives. Recognizing that meaningful work is a pathway to long-term stability, the City of Newport News launched the A Chance to Shine (ACTS) Employment Training Program, an innovative initiative that combines paid work experience, life skills education, and supportive services to help participants transition from homelessness to self-sufficiency.

The ACTS program, administered through the City’s Department of Human Services in partnership with several municipal departments, provides participants with 12 to 20 weeks of paid employment while they gain real-world experience in public works, parks and recreation, public safety, and other city operations. Participants also receive training in financial literacy, health and wellness, interpersonal communication, and personal responsibility, equipping them with the practical and professional skills needed for long-term success. By removing barriers such as transportation challenges and limited access to banking, the program ensures participants can focus on building a brighter future.

The program has already demonstrated measurable success during its first year. Participants completed more than 4,100 hours of job training, earned over $62,000 in wages, and achieved an 87.5 percent program completion rate. More than three-quarters secured employment after completing the program, while nearly two-thirds transitioned into stable housing. Beyond these impressive statistics, participants reported increased confidence, stronger professional networks, and renewed hope for the future.

ACTS has also created meaningful benefits for the city itself. By partnering across departments, Newport News has strengthened its workforce while providing valuable support to municipal operations. Employees serving as mentors and supervisors help participants gain practical experience, while City departments benefit from additional workforce capacity. The collaborative model demonstrates how local governments can address complex social challenges by aligning public services with workforce development and community health goals.

The success of the ACTS Employment Training Program highlights the powerful role local governments can play in creating opportunities for residents facing significant obstacles. Through strategic leadership, cross-department collaboration, and a commitment to investing in people, Newport News has developed a program that not only transforms individual lives but also strengthens neighborhoods, improves community well-being, and builds a safer, more resilient city. The initiative serves as an inspiring model for communities seeking innovative ways to address homelessness through empowerment, employment, and opportunity.