WHO WE ARE

G.R.A.S.P. is a nonprofit organization serving Sarasota and Manatee Counties. We are committed to supporting individuals recovering from substance use by focusing on long-term stability rather than short-term solutions. Our mission is rooted in compassion, accountability, and the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to rebuild their life with dignity and support.

At the core of our work is access to safe, stable housing. We fund the first two weeks of rent at carefully vetted recovery residences, helping individuals reintegrate into the community following incarceration, treatment, or housing instability. We work directly with recovery homes, not with individuals, and prioritize partnerships with residences that are recovery-focused and uphold safety, structure, and accountability. We ensure that all supported recovery residences are equipped with Narcan, a life-saving medication used in overdose emergencies. This added layer of safety reflects our commitment to creating environments where recovery can take root.

Accountability is a cornerstone of our approach. We track data on the individuals we support and the recovery residences we partner with to better understand community needs, trends in housing stability, and opportunities to improve access.

Collaboration is essential to our impact. We work closely with community partners like the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, Lightshare Wellness, and The Salvation Army. When possible, we coordinate with providers prior to an individual’s release from jail, treatment, or detox to help ensure a smoother transition into recovery housing.

As the demand for reentry support continues to grow—up 25% in the past year—G.R.A.S.P. remains committed to expanding its reach. We continue to seek resources that allow us to meet the rising need for safe, recovery-focused housing among individuals returning to the community.

“With additional funding, we aim to help more individuals facing addiction and mental health challenges find a safe path forward,” said John Patrick Harrison, Co-Founder and former Director of Client Services for G.R.A.S.P. Inc. “While we are committed to expanding services and strengthening partnerships, the heart of our mission will always be ensuring access to safe, vetted recovery residences for those in need.”

Through compassion, structure, and collaboration, G.R.A.S.P. provides a lifeline to those seeking a second chance—and a new beginning.