In a world often filled with challenges and uncertainties, some individuals dedicate themselves to uplifting their communities in extraordinary ways. Scott Bradley, the founder and program director of My Brother's Workshop, is one such person transforming the lives of countless at-risk youth in the Virgin Islands. Bradley's mission is simple but profound: to offer guidance, training, and support to young people who might otherwise be forgotten.
"My Brother's Workshop is a program that teaches at-risk, high-risk, juvenile re-entry, and kids with learning disabilities, pretty much anybody who needs help," Bradley explained.
The organization works primarily with young individuals between the ages of 16 and 24, though older individuals are also welcome. Its mission is holistic -- equipping participants with vocational skills, ensuring they complete their high school education, and providing counseling to help them navigate the complexities of life.
Bradley, who moved to the Virgin Islands in 2006 after retiring from a career in industrial engineering, was struck by the community's struggles with gang violence. At the time, he was attending a local Reformed Church and frequently witnessed the tragedy of young lives lost to senseless violence. This inspired him to take action. Drawing on his past experience with prison ministry and work with individuals with disabilities, Bradley decided to start My Brother's Workshop to provide a better path for the youth in his new home.
The program began humbly, with Bradley using his pickup truck to perform volunteer repairs around the church. Eventually, he reached out to young men hanging out in the streets and offered them an alternative to the dangerous allure of gang life. His message was straightforward: "I'll just show you a better way, you know, a better way to live your life." It was never about judgment but rather about offering an opportunity for a better future.
The heart of My Brother's Workshop lies in its hands-on training approach. The program teaches a variety of trades, from woodworking to culinary arts. A major expansion is underway, with plans to build a 10,000-square-foot industrial kitchen, a banquet space, and several classrooms. As Bradley put it, "There's no shortage of a need for help here." The program's emphasis on practical vocational training fills a vital gap in the local educational system.
While the program's structure is crucial, Bradley insists that the real success comes from the relationships built through the work. "The walls come down pretty fast when you're working together," he said. Over time, he has not only worked with the young men but also developed connections with their families, forming a network of support that extends far beyond the classroom or workshop. These relationships are what drive the long-term impact of the program, with many participants continuing to stay in touch years after they've moved on.
One story that exemplifies the success of My Brother's Workshop is that of a young man who struggled with following directions during his time in the program. Today, he's a Walmart store manager, overseeing an entire operation. "This is a kid who had a very hard time following direction but now he gives direction," Bradley recalled with pride.