Stories like this show us what’s possible: to be a business that cares about more than the bottom line. 

For over a decade, this local car dealership and service department–James Collins Ford in Downtown Louisville–has been a beacon of opportunity for individuals recovering from substance abuse, by partnering with our residential program. 

These second chances – even third and fourth ones – are often hard to come by.

This journey began in 2012, when a man from the Beacon House walked through their doors, seeking employment. At the time, James Collins Ford had little experience working with people in recovery, and the initial hire did not stay very long. However, the experience didn’t dissuade them from continuing to support our nonprofit and residents in this way. 

“They have to be ready.” Virginia Payne, the dealership’s Director of Fixed Operations, shared with us.

In 2013, another man from our program applied for a service shuttle position. Despite lacking a driver’s license, he showed determination by going out, obtaining one, and coming back to prove his commitment. He was hired, and that marked the beginning of a relationship that would evolve into something much bigger.

Over the years, the dealership’s commitment to the Beacon House program and residents has grown, and today, roughly 45% of the employees at James Collins Ford’s service department are either in recovery or have been through the Beacon House aftercare program. 

What began as a small gesture of goodwill has since become an integral part of their business culture—one that has not only provided jobs for dozens of men but has also fostered a deeper sense of community and purpose within their workplace.

“By hiring individuals in recovery, we’re not just offering jobs. We’re offering a chance to rebuild lives, and in return, we get hardworking, loyal employees who truly care about their work,” Virginia explained. 

This is especially evident in stories like that of Jeremy, a technician who came to James Collins Ford with experience but no formal certifications. Over five years, Jeremy worked his way up through the ranks, earning certifications and ultimately becoming a Senior Master Technician—the highest level achievable within Ford Motor Company. His story is a testament to how the dealership doesn’t just offer a job but a pathway to a career, giving employees the tools and training they need to succeed. It’s also a shining example of what’s possible for anyone, no matter their past, if they commit to community and sober living.

The culture at James Collins Ford has also transformed through their partnership with our organization. Leadership, which initially had limited understanding of addiction and recovery, now sees these individuals as valued members of their extended family. “It’s been eye-opening,” said Virginia. “Working with people in recovery has given us a deeper understanding of what they’re going through. We’re learning alongside them, and we’re growing as a business and as individuals because of it.” 

The dealership’s staff is more supportive and empathetic, with peers holding each other accountable and supporting one another through the challenges of recovery. The human connections they make go beyond the workplace—employees share in life’s milestones, from weddings to births to personal losses, reinforcing the sense of family that defines the culture.

At James Collins Ford, they’ve learned that the benefits of second-chance hiring go both ways. While they provide employment, the return on that investment is immeasurable. Employees from the Beacon House program are not just working for a paycheck; they’re helping to build a stronger company, one that values hard work, resilience, and personal growth. And for many, it’s about more than just recovery—it’s about reclaiming a sense of purpose, regaining relationships, and rebuilding lives that were once lost to addiction.

“We’re giving them the chance to create a career, not just a job. And they’re doing it—our employees are proving that they can thrive,” says the director. “We’re giving them a fresh start, and in turn, they’re helping us become a stronger, more compassionate team.”

But perhaps most importantly, James Collins Ford is showing that second-chance hiring isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s also good for business. The dealership’s success is built on the commitment and hard work of people who have faced tremendous challenges, and their resilience has paid off in the form of a loyal, dedicated workforce. And the message to other businesses is clear: the rewards of giving someone a second chance extend far beyond just the individual. It creates a ripple effect that can positively impact your entire organization.

For those considering this kind of hiring or other charitable partnerships within your organization, the advice is simple: don’t be afraid to take the leap. “The opportunities are endless. You may have to go through a few people before you find the right fit, but the hard work they put in is worth it. And the reward you get back, it’s so much greater than you could imagine.”

In an era where businesses are increasingly expected to contribute to their communities, James Collins Ford is leading by example. Their partnership with the Beacon House is proof that when you invest in people, it’s not just lives that are transformed—it’s the culture of your entire business.

“It’s not about a bottom line for us,” says the director. “It’s about helping people succeed—both in their personal lives and in their careers. That’s what drives us.”

By offering these opportunities, James Collins Ford is doing much more than filling positions. They’re helping to rebuild lives, one person at a time, and proving that the true value of a business lies in its ability to care for the people who make it run.

In the end, it’s about building a culture where everyone—whether they’re recovering from addiction or simply trying to rebuild—has a place to belong, to grow, and to thrive.

If you’re a business owner looking to make a positive impact in your community, take a page from James Collins Ford’s playbook. By partnering with local nonprofits like the Beacon House, you can offer meaningful employment opportunities to individuals in recovery and help build a more inclusive, compassionate business culture. The benefits are immeasurable. Let us know if you’re interested in an aligned partnership like this, our staff would be delighted to talk with you!