Albert had been in and out of prison several times in his life, lacking the familial support and guidance he needed to exit the prison system permanently. That all changed last year when Albert realized he in turn was not providing the same support to his daughter. In February, Albert made the commitment to become sober and get his life back on track. While riding the bus during his job search, Albert learned about the Our House Career Center from other community members. Albert worked with an Employment Coach to make his resume, learn how to properly fill out applications, and practice his interview skills. While his criminal background barred him from many jobs, with the help of the Career Center team, Albert remained more confident than ever and decided to transition in our Housing programs to remain focused on turning his life around. Since then, Albert has been involved in almost every Our House program and excelled at each step: working in the Career Center as the housekeeper, enrolling in our Reentry program, opening a bank account, and saving enough money to invest in his own car! Albert officially graduated from the job training program in October and has already found full-time employment as a dishwasher in a local restaurant.
“Without Our House, I know that I would be back in prison right now,” Albert says. “I never imagined I could change like this. I’ve learned to love myself and my life which has brought me so much closer to my daughter.” Albert remains passionate about his personal progress and focused on his future more than ever with a duplex lined up through Jericho Way which he will move into this month!