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Project LIFT is “therapy under the hood of a car”

“If we treat people as they ought to be, we help them become what they are capable of being,” wrote the German writer Goethe.

Project LIFT unwaveringly follows this philosophy through a unique combination of services described as “therapy under the hood of a car.” The innovative approach targets at-risk young men and women ages 14 to 24 who are struggling under the challenges of mental health issues, poverty, substance abuse, trauma or lack of employable skills. The nonprofit turns these lives around with free vocational training, therapy, mentoring and life skills training.

Since its launch in 2010, Project LIFT has changed the lives of more than 5,000 participants, including more than 350 in the Fort Pierce location, which opened in 2022. The organization also operates offices in Hobe Sound and Belle Glade.

To change despair into resilience and unemployment into self-sufficiency, Project LIFT integrates vocational training in high-demand careers such as carpentry, welding and auto repair with trauma-informed mental health services. Participants work closely with licensed therapists and skilled vocational instructors to address the issues these young people are facing and to help them develop marketable trade skills. For participants who have dropped out of school, an accredited high school diploma program is offered on site.

Project LIFT’s extraordinary approach includes stipend pay for participants, contingent upon attendance, behavior and sobriety. Students who complete the program successfully are paired with industry partners in need of skilled talent. 

It’s a win-win situation for the individual and the community.

Project LIFT invites you to become part of the transformation. For more information on opportunities to volunteer, donate, sponsor, mentor or become an industry partner, visit projectlift.org or call 772.221.2244.