A program in Bridgeport that's designed to help men getting out of jail find success just graduated its first class.

 Empowered Reentry Project is a 10-day experience focused on building skills like teamwork and resilience to help people recently out of jail become successful workers and citizens.

The program was organized by teacher Dr. Tina Manus by obtaining grants and support from community groups. Manus says she is impressed with the results of the first graduating class, which was made up of nine men. She says she's seen the students become motivated to try new things.

Manus says she is now looking for people to fill her second class this fall. Participants can get referred by parole officers and community groups or they can contact her online.