Reentry Program helped Ron find his voice

Ron was facing eviction, which would impact the conditions of his parole, when his parole officer suggested he connect with Goodwill-Easter Seals Minnesota’s (GESMN) Reentry Program for assistance.

“I didn’t know who to reach out to for help,” Ron explained. But Reentry navigator Phil helped him navigate the process to avoid eviction. “If you don’t ask, you won’t get help. Before, I was the shy, hiding under a rock type of person, but now I can speak up. It helps me get stuff off my chest and get the support and advice I need.”

GESMN’s Reentry program provides individualized assistance and support groups for people exiting incarceration to connect to resources and employment opportunities.

“[The program] helped me focus more on my life, and better understand my wants and needs, which has helped me get further along at work,” Ron continued. “I’ve been at my job three-and-a-half years and just last fall I got certified to operate a forklift. I feel great! You gotta start somewhere and work your way up.”

Ron returns to the program again and again because he enjoys the camaraderie at events and helping others in support groups. “I come in voluntarily because I can help other people and that makes me feel good. I’ve had my fair share of struggles with food, housing, jobs and they may not know the ins and outs so I can use my experience to help someone else out.”

“Ron previously struggled with the job and how much he could ask for help,” Phil explained. “Ron is more comfortable with the world now and he keeps coming back to help others who follow in his footsteps. He’s a lot of fun to have around.”

Ron added “every bit of advice Phil has given me I use, might not be right away but it’s there when I need it. I see a lot of folks in this program that are doing well and I can see they are going to succeed.”

To learn more about GESMN’s career and training services, visit gesmn.org/programs or text JOBS to 71492. 

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