RALEIGH – A state reentry program started last year is helping people who used to be incarcerated secure jobs on transportation work crews and get identification cards to access housing and healthcare more easily.
Inside this recycling plant is a room full of second chances. “We help people who’ve been convicted of crimes get second chance opportunities to get into the workforce,” Center for Employment Opportunities social manager Ryan Marshall said. Formerly incarcerated people work recycling styrofoam, but for many its more than just a job. It’s a step toward a new life.
Lawmakers introduced the RESTORE Act to address problems stretching back to the Clinton administration.
The SAFE Charlotte program just released its latest round of grant recipients and this time, two of the main focuses are pairing mental health and workforce development as a way to hopefully deter crime.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A Charlotte organization is making progress finding work for people released from prison, despite the pandemic. Channel 9 has previously reported on the outcome of a lawsuit that is forcing North Carolina prisons to release 3,500 people early due to COVID-19 concerns. Anchor Brittney Johnson talked to advocates working to help more people re-enter our cities with the support they need to succeed.
For the past 3 months the Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) has been working for Mecklenburg County. CEO provides immediate, effective, and comprehensive employment services exclusively to individuals who have recently returned home from incarceration and provides employment to folks that normally would have a difficult time finding full time employment in our community. Meck County is utilizing two crews from CEO to help combat illegal dumping and unsightly roadside litter. The crews consist of 3-4 workers and a supervisor.
February 6, 2025
Ryan M. Moser
In New York, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides food assistance for residents who need help and offers a pathway to free job training and trade certificates, allowing recipients to return to school or join the workforce with a new skill.
September 18, 2024
Tiffany Elder
In the heart of North Carolina, Charlotte is steeped in rich history and known affectionately as Queen City, the fight for voting rights continues to unfold, especially for those facing the justice system. Eddie, a participant with the Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) in Charlotte, knows these challenges all too well.
July 29, 2024
Philip Fera
From the start, the Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) Charlotte’s Site Director, Tiffany Miller, has had a passion for serving those who have been justice-impacted.
July 2, 2024
“I had the same enthusiasm with my new company as I did with CEO, and within three months I got a promotion,” Tiffani said. “The staff at CEO taught me that my past doesn’t define me, and encouraged me to be my best.”
May 24, 2024
“CEO had staff available for anything I needed, but I didn’t ask for much until I had to,” Eddie said. “You can extend a hand to someone, but they still have to do the work. CEO gave me the opportunity, and I took advantage of it and worked hard.”
March 26, 2024
Jason Kahler
Jalisa, a site supervisor at the Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) in Charlotte, not only uplifts herself but also empowers the individuals under her wing to reclaim their lives and get back on track.
October 26, 2022
Quiana Brifu, Federal Policy Associate
As the cost of living has risen dramatically around the nation, North Carolina resident Lamar thought he found a solution to help make ends meet: food assistance.