Transformation Behind Bars

Richard* had spent over half of his life behind bars. He was a repeat offender, having committed numerous crimes relating to weapons, assault, and drug sales. He was an active member of one of the most notorious prison gangs.

For Richard, change was slow. Like many who get caught up in the drug trade, he became addicted to the fast life and easy money of the drug dealer. Going to prison was just part of the game, but his last conviction sent him to Arizona State Prison for 12 years.

There, Richard began to rethink the direction of his life. And in a place where he least expected to find it, Richard found religion. Over the months and years that passed, he became more and more committed to changing his life. He broke his former gang ties, started attending Narcotics Anonymous meetings regularly, and began to make plans for turning his life around.

In December 2003, Richard was transferred to Alameda County for release from prison. Shortly thereafter he attended one of Goodwill’s weekly Applicant Orientations in Oakland and learned about the Goodwill Academy program.

While in prison he had developed skills as a mechanic and truck driver. In January 2004, Richard was initially enrolled as an on-call Material Handler at the Oakland Plant. Within 90 days, however, he was given the opportunity to train as an Apprentice Driver. While gaining work experience in the Transportation Department, Richard began working with Goodwill staff on conducting a job search. He was taught job search techniques, interviewing skills, and provided assistance in drafting a resume. He also attended the Academy’s Life Skills classes, where he gained confidence in himself and his ability to build a new life after prison.

Within a short period of time employers began to show an interest in Richard. In April 2004, he interviewed with the owner of a gym in the East Bay. The owner was impressed by the fact that Richard was in a training program and by his motivation and commitment to changing his life. He hired Richard as a mechanic to maintain their workout machines, make repairs, and install plasma TV’s in each of their fitness locations. Richard is currently working a full 40 hour schedule, earning $20 per hour. He has also enrolled in evening classes and hopes one day to become a drug counselor to help others make positive changes in their lives.

* Name changed to protect the privacy of the Goodwill participant.