by Ahren Cassinari-Foster
1.Each human being is incredibly unique. Sure, there are some common threads that tend to run through the stories of the people I work with, but each person’s circumstances and their response to those circumstance, is distinct. Each student brings their own strengths, struggles, and joys to our class. When they open up and share their uniquely talented selves, awesome things can happen.
2.Finding a job when you have a criminal background can be extremely difficult. Persons with a criminal history desperately want a second chance at life but encounter a lot of obstacles when searching for employment. In addition to overcoming a work history with holes created by incarceration, these individuals often face the prospect of having to disclose some of their most regretted decisions to a near perfect stranger with the power to hire them or turn them away. If they can find work, they often have to settle for low-wage, high-stress positions in companies that do not treat their employees well.
3.Resilience and attitude mean more than I ever knew. In the midst of transition, loss, and struggle, so many of my students have shown an uncanny ability to remain focused on their goals and maintain a positive outlook. I am astounded by their ability to do so in the midst of so many challenges. Interestingly, the students who maintain a positive outlook throughout their job search seem to have a way of finding employment.
For more information about our Main Frame Job Readiness Program, visit: https://centraloac.org/programs/main-frame