Our History

G.R.A.S.P. was incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in August of 2010 by Jodi Childs Harrison and John Harrison, who recognized the need for supporting individuals in recovery and transition in Sarasota and Manatee Counties. The Harrisons appointed Michael Richker as their CEO.

G.R.A.S.P. was founded to meet a growing need in the recovery community—supporting individuals transitioning back into society after incarceration, homelessness, or treatment. The organization began as a grassroots effort to bridge the gap between recovery residences and the people who need them most, offering short-term housing support to help individuals take their first steps toward lasting recovery.

What started with a handful of dedicated advocates quickly evolved into a structured, community-based nonprofit serving Sarasota and Manatee Counties. G.R.A.S.P. established trusted partnerships with vetted recovery residences, working directly with individuals while collaborating closely with the homes that support them. This model, rooted in safety, accountability, and dignity, has allowed G.R.A.S.P. to remain a recognized presence in the local reentry and recovery landscape. The organization continues to collaborate with law enforcement, service providers, and recovery communities to provide hope and stability to those ready to rebuild.

In 2024, G.R.A.S.P. suffered the heartbreaking loss of its founder, John Patrick “Pat” Harrison. Pat’s passion for recovery, his deep compassion for others, and his unwavering belief in second chances were the driving forces behind the organization’s creation and growth. His legacy continues through the work of G.R.A.S.P.’s board of directors, who remain committed to honoring his vision and carrying the mission forward—ensuring that every individual seeking a fresh start has access to safe, recovery-focused housing and a path toward a better future.

In the past two years, G.R.A.S.P. has grown from serving 252 individuals in need in 2022 to serving 388 individuals in 2023. The organization is happy to report an average 76 percent success rate, and plans to continue serving the community by providing opportunities for individuals in need of sponsorship and support during their transitional periods. In addition to housing assistance, G.R.A.S.P. now offers essential resources such as phones, work boots, groceries, clothing for interviews, hygiene products, and ID documentation when needed. The long-term goal remains the same—setting individuals up for success in their reentry to society.

The important work that G.R.A.S.P. conducts is made possible with the generous support of the Gulf Coast Community Foundation, the Manatee Community Foundation, the Sarasota Community Foundation, The Cowles Charitable Trust, and other thoughtful donors in the community.