Voices of Hope – Matthew J.

“I’m from a good family with parents who love me and provided well for me. I was a good kid playing high school football and planning to play in college like my brothers. But, I was too concerned with trying to make everyone happy and didn’t know how to say no, so I got involved with some bad friends. When I was 17 years-old, I was giving a ride to some of those bad friends and ended up being the getaway driver. I was sentenced to 40 years in prison.

“But I refused to let that be the future for me. While in prison, I continued to have the support of my family and stayed on my best behavior. I practiced meditation daily and did all the work and study needed to have my case reconsidered. Because of changes to the juvenile laws, I was able to meet with the State Attorney after serving 6 years. I told her I was serious and had big plans for my life. She saw something in me, and I was fortunate enough to get a new deal that would allow for my release after completing 10 years, followed by 3 years probation. When I was 27 years old, I was finally released and came straight to Operation New Hope. I’m so glad I did.

“I really liked learning what to do and what not to do to succeed at work and life while in the Ready4Work program. The Career Development Instructor was a really good role model and the financial planning helped me make plans to succeed. I found a job at U-Haul making $15 an hour, and I am also working as a manager at Taco Bell. I’ve built up my credit and saved up enough money now to buy my first car – a Camaro – I love it! By this time next year, I should be super straight. I am working hard, doing what’s right, staying fit, and keeping my mind right. My long-term goal is to be an entrepreneur and build something bigger.

“If I had a chance to give advice to myself at 17, I would say “Whatever you do, keep your eyes on the prize and don’t get involved with the wrong crowd.’