Leaving prison after 24 years was like landing in another country with nothing but the clothes on your back…minus the clothes on your back. I was terrified that I’d forever be judged based upon my worst moment; that I’d never be accepted back into society. It felt like I had a tattoo on my forehead that read “Excon.” Out of fear, caution, and a bit of hope, I enrolled in The Program. In retrospect, it was one of the best decisions I made. I was teamed up with a Mentor, Keith, who has helped me in so many ways. Keith listens to my concerns, lends invaluable advice / guidance, and connects me to resources I didn’t know existed. I’ve been out for nine (9) months now, and am doing great. I am employed, compliant with all the rules of parole, and have a strong support system. If not for The Program, I may have fallen into the cycle of recidivism that sends 75% of offenders back to prison. Because of The Program, I am proof that successful reentry is possible with adequate resources.
