March 3, 2009
A Second Chance
Safer client Juan Cruz tells his story to Dick Gordon on The Story by American Public Media.
Visit The Story website to listen to Juan Cruz's story.
Finding a job these days is tough – and even tougher if you’re one of the 73 million Americans with a state criminal record. Most job applications have a box you’re supposed to check if you’ve ever been convicted of a crime. And that usually means you’re guaranteed not to be considered for the job.
Juan Cruz spent nearly 15 years in prison after being convicted of a violent crime at age 18. He says from his first day in prison, he worked to improve himself and prepare for a new start on the outside. He took classes, worked as a barber, and got an associate’s degree in business. But when he got out, Juan couldn't find a job anywhere. He talks with Dick Gordon about how he finally got a break through the help of a mentor. These days, Juan is a mentor to other felons.
Visit The Story website to listen to Juan Cruz's story.
Finding a job these days is tough – and even tougher if you’re one of the 73 million Americans with a state criminal record. Most job applications have a box you’re supposed to check if you’ve ever been convicted of a crime. And that usually means you’re guaranteed not to be considered for the job.
Juan Cruz spent nearly 15 years in prison after being convicted of a violent crime at age 18. He says from his first day in prison, he worked to improve himself and prepare for a new start on the outside. He took classes, worked as a barber, and got an associate’s degree in business. But when he got out, Juan couldn't find a job anywhere. He talks with Dick Gordon about how he finally got a break through the help of a mentor. These days, Juan is a mentor to other felons.
- Watch and Listen
-
The Clock is Ticking on Adult Transition Centers : Adult transition centers are at risk of closing down without the… MORE >
-
Medill Reports Chicago, March 7, 2010: The City of Chicago is taking one more step… MORE >
-
WTTW Chicago Tonight, October 14, 2009: Finding a job is never easy in a recession,… MORE >
-
- Headlines
-
Clear Your Criminal Record in the Expungement Summit!: Clear Your Criminal Record! Safer Foundation Supports the… MORE >
-
Foundation puts ex-cons to work: The Chicago Tribune features Safer Foundation during the holiday season.… MORE >
-
New Program for Those Just Released from Prison: Rockford's WIFR examines local reentry programs, focuses on Safer… MORE >
-
- Reentry Resources
- Public Policy
- Success Stories
- Follow Us
-
Follow us: