Hello to all, I just wanted to throw out the idea of ex-felons working for themselves. I might be naive for throwing this idea out there, but it seems to make sense seeing how the system fails to provide employment to those with criminal pasts. I own my own business and when I ordeal is over, I will go back to what I do best. I hope that I stir up some ideas and get across that we cannot let this flawed system detour our goals and dreams in life.

just wondering, if you don't mind, what kind of business are you talking about? I don't think it is that easy to start your own business, but I do thaink it is a good idea with help. I have a year before my son gets out and he is thinking the samething, of starting his own business, but doesn't know where to start. Maybe you could help!

It's easy enough to start your own business. You just find something you know how to do that people would be willing to pay you to do, decide on your business name and register it with the state (costs about $30 here) make business cards and rate sheets and/or contracts, get a tax ID number------I've been a business owner myself so I'd be really happy to help anyone who would like some help getting a business going. It's my thought that that's the best thing for people just coming out of prison, but the problem would probably mostly lie with convincing your PO that you should be allowed to do it instead of just looking for a job working for someone else. Being self-employed is no less hard work than working for someone else----in many ways, it's harder. But it can be done. PM me if anyone has questions or wants personal help with an idea they have.

Here is a link to the Department of Labor. I know it says that you must qualify for UI Bebefits, but if you are working at a fast food place or what ever then get laid off and then may qualify for these benefits. (UI) You may be able to do this.

While on parole work at whatever, to get by and at the same time plan the furure. (Business wise) Then you may get a head start on your own.
As for what to do? The other post suggested something you liked. Thats a good start. Take a look around your town and figure out what it needs.
Mow lawns? This is one most boys did in school for extra money. Once you get started it can turn into a pretty good business. Depending on the size of the yard $80-150?
Start out as painter to learn if you dont know how. Make friends, do a good job and who knows? You may own or run your franchise someday.

You can buy business cards on the internet a place called Vista, get first 250 cards for I think its $10.00. And you can design them yourself and put what you want on them.

Just a couple more ideas and suggestions. I sometimes like to think big.

http://www.ows.doleta.gov/unemploy/self.asp

You can also buy business card blanks pretty cheap at Walmart and other places and make your own business cards that way. For some kinds of work, you might need to get bonded, but for many others, you don't have to. The odd job market is usually a good one and so is getting an old pickup truck and doing clean up work. Sometimes people will even give you salvage rights to stored "junk" in addition to wages. But there are hundreds of ideas for self-employment. I've even known of a couple of ex-cons who took their crime experience and used that to become consultants to security companies. They make a nice living.