Building Second Chances: Evolution Partners with New Hour to Support Women Returning Home

Jennifer DeVito
Nov 27, 2025
3 min read

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vXh_638X3lM

This project means so much to the entire Evolution General Contracting team and I. As a woman-owned business, we have always believed in the power of women helping women. Being chosen to build this home for New Hour For Women and Children was more than another project, it was an opportunity to create something that will truly change lives. We are proud to stand beside an organization that uplifts women, offers hope, and gives them a chance to start again.

We are honored to have built the New Hour Re-Entry Home in Brentwood, the first of its kind on Long Island dedicated to supporting women as they return and rebuild with continued support after incarceration.

A Home Built on Purpose

New Hour for Women and Children of Long Island has been transforming lives through advocacy, education, and support. The Kraus House brings that mission to life.

Designed to remove barriers, support successful reentry, and create real second chances, the Kraus House provides a safe and empowering home for women returning from jail or prison in New York State. Residents can stay for up to two years and benefit from dedicated housing support, a house manager, and community support groups.

Housing is the single biggest factor in reducing recidivism on Long Island and the Kraus House is a place of belonging, empowerment, and new beginnings.

“I told Serena I know of this female contractor that does great work. Knowing of Jen’s work I knew it was the perfect fit and turns out it was. It felt good using a female contractor to build this home that will benefit so many women in the community. The work on the house was wonderful and the relationship Serena and Jen developed together was wonderful on both their parts.” - Judy White

Women Building for Women

At Evolution, this project holds special meaning. As a woman-owned general contracting company, we deeply connect with New Hour’s mission since it reflects our own. Our team poured our heart into every detail, knowing this build would become a space for healing, growth, and new opportunities.

We believe in the power of opportunity, in lifting others as we rise, and in creating environments that foster hope.

Aligned in Vision

New Hour’s mission and Evolution’s vision share a common goal which creates lasting impact for women, families, and the Long Island community. This home is a testament to what can happen when purpose-driven people and organizations come together, where compassion meets action, true change becomes possible.

We are honored to have played a part in bringing this vision to life, and proud that it will serve women who deserve every opportunity to rebuild their lives.

“Working with Evolution General Contracting to bring our reentry home to life has been an incredible experience. What began as a plot of land is now a beautiful, safe space where women can return, rebuild, and thrive. As a women-led organization, it was deeply meaningful to collaborate with a team that is also women-led who not only understood our vision but shared our commitment to creating spaces rooted in dignity and healing. Evolution General Contracting truly helped us turn our mission into a home.” - Serena Martin, Executive Director of New Hour for Women & Children LI