Voices of Hope – Michael J.

I was at the Columbia Work Camp serving my 6th year in prison when I hear about Operation New Hope. I wrote to get more information and was accepted into the Ready4Release program. It was such a relief to know that my housing was arranged prior to my release, so I knew I had somewhere to go.”

“After prison, I came to the Ready4Work program, and it was amazing! I got so much help. Not only did I receive housing, food, and clothing, but I also was given a fresh start at life. The program lives up to its name and really does make you ready for work. My Case Manager Bryan helped me get my license back and helped me organize my short and long term goals. My job coach Melissa did an excellent job in helping me build my resume. She helped me translate the experienced I gain while doing concrete work in prison to my resume, and I thank her so much for that. After completing the program, I submitted my resume to several employers, got an immediate interview, and was offered the job right away at Allied Plastics.

I’ve been at Allied for almost a year now, and I’ve already received two raises. I am working on building back my credit history and saving up money to buy a new truck. I can see things more clearly, and I’m responsible now. I’m just putting one foot in front of the other. That’s how you make the journey, and it’s been a really good journey so far.

I wanted change. I needed it badly. I was walking down dead-end roads, living nothing but trouble. Prison straightened me up big time, and I’m not going to be that guy that keeps going back. With the help of Operation New Hope, I’m now new and improved and so happy.

To anyone considering the program, my advice is to stick with it. If you need and want change, Ready4Work is a good first step. The people at Operation New Hope are outstanding, fantastic, and amazing!