Thomas E. Young, Jr.

Senior Pathway Navigator and Housing Manager

Tom Young, who goes by Young, interacts with all of our male clients, whether it be as their case manager, inspecting their house, or leading a class. He carries one of the most extensive caseloads of our staff and often works with Lifers who may need more intense supervision or assistance. As Housing Manager, he provides guidance to REAL LIFE recovery houses and their Peer House Leaders, emphasizing the safety and success of all residents, while also recognizing and addressing operational practices, policies and procedures that bolsters the success of Lifers participating in the program.

Young is a former US AIR FORCE Vet who served during Desert Storm with a Top Secret clearance. Young has a BS in Public Administration from Grambling State University. He previously ran a private investigation business regulated by the VA Department of Criminal Justice Services. Young worked as a level II State Investigator for the VA Indigent Defense Commission. He also has served as a classification specialist for the Richmond City Sheriff’s Office and has been associated with REAL LIFE since 2015.

Young has an extensive music career, including managing and touring with the disco funk band GROOVESPOT. GROOVESPOT opened for multiple famous, national bands including 10,000 Maniacs, George Clinton, Average White Band, Eddie Money, Jeffery Osborne, and KC and the Sunshine Band. Young is a devoted father, and enjoys sharing his love of drumming and music with his children and all those around him.