Kenosha---Organizations that specialize in helping former prison inmates find work hope to take advantage of the low unemployment rate by trying to persuade greater numbers of employers to at least consider hiring ex-cons.
Two dozen such groups will be holding an expo for employers Tuesday at Gateway’s Horizon Center.
Speaking with Greg Berg on WGTD’s Morning Show last week, James Schatzman of Racine/Kenosha Vocational Ministries said his group’s work is based on the belief that everyone has something to offer. "The fundamental that we operate out of is that all people are created with gifts, talents and apptitudes that have been knit together," said Schatzman, adding, "How do we draw those out?"
Getting former inmates 'employment ready' is usually much more involved than teaching a skill, Schatzman said. The assimilation process often times involves getting them to see the world and themselves in a different light so they'll be able to "fit in."
Kenosha County District Attorney Michael Graveley is also a strong believer in doing what needs to be done to help former inmates find employment. "This community is safest when we provide real opportunities for those who are coming out of incarceration," Graveley said. "This community is most just when we provide those same opportunities," he said.
Graveley is helping to organize Tuesday's expo.
The Horizon Center is located on Highway 'H' adjacent to the Kenosha Regional Airport. The event will run from 7:30 until 1.
To listen to the full Morning Show interview, click here.
The program also featured Carl Fields, a former inmate who's now employed by Schatzman's group.
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