A Hand Up LLC was established April 4, 2022 in Augusta, ME, by Johnny Clark and his partner, as a co-ed recovery house. The company expanded in the summer of 2022, opening a second house in Lewiston, ME. By the winter of 2022, the Lewiston house branched off on its own due to changes in business management and ownership.

As the demand for re-entry housing grew, with many of those incarcerated having had a history of substance use disorder, Johnny made the decision to expand the company once more. In the spring of 2023, Second Chances LLC was established as a sister company to A Hand Up LLC. The Second Chances “Scotland House”, located in Sabattus, ME, was a program offered for female residents.

Johnny has made it his mission to provide the support and guidance he was given in his personal recovery journey. As a person in recovery, he was moved to learn more about the disease and further his education. He achieved his CADC from Washington County Community College in 2022. His ambition also led him to acquire his MHRT-C, CIPSS, PBHP, R4R, and CCAR Recovery Coach certifications.

Johnny’s story not only reaches those who suffer from substance use disorder, but also speaks to those who have been incarcerated. He shares his experience, strength, hope, and education with residents, and firmly believes in the program.