David has several felony convictions and spent 20 years in prison. When he got out, he felt like it was almost impossible to find an employer who was willing to look beyond his past and give him a chance. Once he found Honest Jobs, he was hired by a fair-chance employer, and now he is making $21.35 per hour as a forklift operator. Learn more about his experience in the video below:
Read the interview with David here:
What experience did you have with the criminal justice system?
David: "I never really was a criminal. I think I was more of an addict, and I did things that were criminal to supply that habit. My crimes were possession of a forged instrument, improper use of a credit card, and fleeing and invading once. But this time here, I finally got out on December 28th; I completed a 20-year sentence. I did 39 months this last time. Since I've been 19 years old (and once again, I'm 48), this is the first time in my life I've had no warrants for my arrest, I'm not on probation or parole, I've even got my driver's license, and I've got insurance on my car. These things may seem ordinary, but to me, it's huge."
What was your job searching experience like before you found Honest Jobs?
David: "When you do get out, you've got a good mindset, you've got rights, you're focused, you're trying to do what you need to do. And until now, I mean, it was almost impossible. You get out, you've got to get a job, and you go to all these places, and they don't want to deal with you. Even though you may have those same statistics and things happen like the people without felonies, you are a felon; you can't do that. You've got to shine a little bit brighter than the next guy."
Tell us about the job you found through Honest Jobs!
David: "I'm a forklift operator, shipping and receiving. I get paid $21.35 an hour. It turned out really well. I mean, it's probably the best job I've ever had in my life. Great benefits. I love the environment. They don't treat you any different. Everybody's been really nice, helpful. The lady that got the training is great. I have no complaints whatsoever about it. It's plenty of money. You know, I live with the mother of my kid and my daughter. She's 19; today is her birthday. I have been around her more this time than I probably have in my whole life. I've been able to buy stuff, do this, do that. It's a good feeling, you know? But I plan on staying there; that's where I will hopefully retire from."
Would you recommend Honest Jobs to other formerly incarcerated job seekers?
David: "I would definitely recommend it. I mean, it's a great job to have."