In 2020, Army Armstead co-founded Emergent Works with a conviction born from lived experience: the people most affected by mass incarceration deserved more than a second chance. They deserved the tools to build entirely new futures.

What began as a small mentorship initiative in New York City has grown into a comprehensive organization serving system-impacted Black and Brown youth and adults through two distinct programs that address the full spectrum of needs, from digital literacy and workforce readiness to music production and community leadership.

We break cycles. We build futures.

At Emergent Works, we equip BIPOC individuals impacted by the criminal justice system with the tools to thrive in today's digital world. Through technology, creativity, and community, we empower participants to build financial independence, grow personally, and lead within their communities.

How We Do It

Our programs blend technical training, creative expression, and social-emotional learning, led by instructors and mentors who reflect our participants' lived experiences. We offer programming in person across New York City and virtually upon request, creating safe, inclusive, and culturally responsive spaces where participants can explore their interests, develop real skills, and step into meaningful careers.

Every program is designed to restore dignity, build agency, and open doors to long-term opportunity.

Our Impact

We support at least 50 system-impacted individuals annually in New York City.

73% of graduates are employed. Employed graduates earn a median of $2 above NYC minimum wage. 100% complete digital literacy training including AI, Google Suite, Canva, and web development. 100% leave with a Google Career Certificate, and we are a certified Google partner.

Help Write Someone's Story

Every dollar directly funds programming, including skills training, credentialing, job placement, and the wraparound support that makes all of it stick. When you give to Emergent Works, you're not just funding a program. You're investing in someone's ability to reclaim their story and build something new.

Donate to Emergent Works