Gregg almost gave up hope of finding a permanent job because of his criminal background. However, with the help of Honest Jobs, he found one within a month. Now, he has the opportunity to build his life back and reach his goals. Learn more about his experience in the video below:
Read the full interview with Gregg here:
What experience do you have with the criminal justice system?
Gregg: “Basically back in 2012, I was 23. I was young, dumb, doing stupid stuff. I thought I was cool, but I was robbing drug dealers. I got caught and I was sentenced to seven years in federal time. I got released December 6th, 2018, for good behavior. But I didn't let that tear me down, I kept pushing. It's hard. I'm trying to find an apartment and it's hard finding an apartment right now.”
What was your job searching experience like before and after you found Honest Jobs?
Gregg: “I started doing temp jobs and I hate temp jobs. I can't stand a temp job. But that's how I was hired because my background. It is discouraging sometimes, okay? It's a lot. I thought it was over. I thought I'd never get a permanent job ever again. As soon as I got in touch with Honest Jobs, it took a month just to get over here, but it was worth the month. It was worth the wait and they actually treat me like a regular person. I feel like I never had a background before. I feel regular now.”
Tell us about your new job!
Gregg: “I applied for the shipper. Basically what we do is we load trucks. They teach me a lot of computer stuff right now. I never knew it was this much computer work, but I need it though. I like it. It's good. Like you got people that have been here like 20 plus years, so I'm looking a job like that.”
What are your career goals?
Gregg: “My goal is to get my CDL, start driving, and then hopefully start my own either hot shot company or my own trucking company. So next Monday I get off probation and I'm looking for schooling real soon."
Would you recommend Honest Jobs to other formerly incarcerated job seekers?
Gregg: “Actually, I've been passing out a bunch of cards. And I said, man, they gave me a chance. Whoever's in charge of this, I owe them my life because I swear I was real depressed, very, very depressed. So they came through and helped me.”