Sorry, but I just need to vent.

I got another call today from a staffing company who gave me phone interview. Everything went well, as usaul, my background and experience match what they are looking for. They told me job was with PacBell / $30hr contract, starting next week. Then they call me back and asked for SSN# and asked if I had problem with them doing background check and / drug test - I said no, but then I also gave up feeling here we go again. For the past year, over 600 resumes sent out, 30 GOOD interviews, still nothing. So I got another call today from another company who left message and I didn't even bother to call back - what for?

I have a college degree, many years experience yet I feel it's worhless now. I currently get calls from collection agencies asking for payment on a student loan - yet I refuse to pay on a loan for degree that isn't worth s**t.

Now I know why ex felons cannot vote or be selected for juy duty because of the injustice we experience from our system. Injustice? Here's an example: I had a felony several years ago, went to probation, then back to court and was granted reduction to misdameanor by the judge. Months later, I get a letter from the justice dept. over ruling that decision so as a felony it still stands and I have no reason why (they will not help).

It's not fair, I mean to have a record follow you for the rest of your life. I'm going to write to Arnold Schwarzennger and request a Governer's Pardon --- haha

Sorry, but just had to vent my frustrations. Hopefully tomorrow will be better so I will not give up. Thanks for listening


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Hey Gonestraight, I feel for you! I can't imagine what it must be like to go through what you are going through looking for employment. It's frustrating enough when you don't have a record and can't seem to find a job, but to have a college degree, good interviews, etc., etc. and then get rejection after rejection has to hit pretty hard. Do you tell them about your felony up front? Everyone is doing the background check thing now, so it's pretty hard to keep it hidden. I had a friend staying with me who had all kinds of experience and couldn't seem to land a job either. We finally figured out it was her bad credit. I had to find a new job after 22 years and when they sent me the information that they had received from the company that did the checking on me, I couldn't believe it!! It must have been 15 pages long and included my credit history back to 1972, as well as my driving and criminal record, which were both clean thank God. Anyway, my point is why not put it out front in your cover letter. Just what you said happened. Several years ago, you made a mistake and it was reduced to a misdemeanor and then rescinded back to a felony, etc. etc. At least with it in the cover letter, anyone calling for an interview will already know the scoop and if they can get past it, you'll have a really good interview with a real chance of getting the job. Just a thought. I guess it's what I would do because I hate rejection and since everyone is doing the "background check" thing and would find out anyway, I wouldn't have to go through the hoops for nothing.

I pray that something comes through for you.

Take care and God bless,
Bonnie

Thanks for your encouragement.

Just wanted to share one more thing then I'll shut up.

When filling out applications and signing the last page authorizing an employer to conduct background check, reference check, credit check, etc. , it also states that we as applicants are entitled to a copy of this report (also by Law)from the company who conducted it if it is used as a reason to disqualify you from employment. Key word is "IF", ----------Companies use this loophole and will hardly ever disclose to you what they find out, but will just tell you a more qualified candidate was found. This is from my experience.

Thanks again

:( Man I can totally understand your strife!!

I served 7 and a half years in prison, went in at age 19. Been out for two years this Feb.
I got a low paying job that barely pays my bills, I'm thankful I got it...but it's hard to be gushing of thanks when I have bill collectors calling me non stop for medical bills I cannot pay...nor get help for because I can't get govt. help. Can't get it they say unless I'm pregnant. They count gross income of me and my husband...and it ain't shit..but it disqualifies us.

Sucks. Yes.

Student loan?? Me too. I quit college after I discovered that even w/a deg. I still won't get hired. They see them felonies and lose a gasket.

People view us as quitters, or slackers. IF THEY ONLY KNEW. We worked deathly hard in prison, so we KNOW HOW TO WORK HARD.

That's not the issue. We just can't get a job. I refuse to allow it to put me back in chains tho.
I hate prison w/every ounce of my soul.

I think of one thing to put me in perspective.
Who put me there?? ME. :pissed:
No one else.

I would get severly depressed if I wasn't a devoted Christian. Because that's how society pulls us around.
They judge you, don't let you vote, mark you as a repeat offender even if U DON'T REPEAT!

Yes sweetie, it's hard. Got that right----that's an understatement!!

I cant say I blame you one bit. Society wants ( so they say) rehablitation, yet part of that upon release is getting a job. They make it so darn hard to do this.
I am so sorry.

((hugs)) and hang in there.... Too many times society says "Well they gave up and went back..." Don't join that statistic. What society does is wrong but please keep plugging away...

Deb

I agree with this post, also. I have a college degree that I cannot use ever again. I am bright, well educated, and a quick learner. However, all I have been able to find is McDonalds type jobs. Every time I try to find some type of educational field to pursue I find out that felons can not get licensed in that field or whatever. I am considering going into chemical dependency counseling because at least in that field your drug conviction can work FOR you as far as employment.

Also, someone mentioned that in many states felons are ineligible for student loans, public housing, welfare, food stamps, etc etc. They do make it so so hard. I found a website yesterday, I think it is called H.I.R.E., and it is about reforming theses laws and giving felons a chance. It is well worth looking at; lots of info.

kwolf

Average guy: I own a company I have 5 applicants all have what im looking for 1 is a felon guess who will be dumped first? This is life, is that comforting, NO!! The reality is that the average Joe doens't know what the Criminal Justice System really is so they see Felon and that means "bad". Not someone I want to take a risk on when Im just treading water in the business world myslef. I see this EVERY day!! I help my women and men get jobs when I can, but, my god it is hard for them. Many I wouldn't pay to rake my lawn, but many I would pay to build my home! Court orders they be employed, be in treatment, pay restitution, pay court fines, pay supervision fee's all when they have no license and a felon!! by the way, don't you drink while your dealing with these stresses!! What can I do for these people!!

Pretty blunt there Searcher.. Honesty is good though.

I agree with quite a bit of it.. I have dealt for almost all my adult life with getting a job on probation.. It's a hard thing to do and you often will feel like there is not much up in the job market.. I learned to lie..
The people who currently employ me found out that I run PTO.. Boy, was that a hard pill for them to swallow, and I don't blame them.. You wouldn't guess I am a "convict"
If I had told them from the start about my criminal history, I seriously doubt they would have hired me (Mike, if your reading this, please comment... lol) at all.
When they found out, my boss talked to me (took me to lunch, actually) about it and ended up keeping me on.. I think I proved myself in the mean time (since I started, though I probably have not shined as bright as I should have).
In this case, I didn't have to lie on an application because they never asked if I had a criminal record. If they had, I would have lied.. Plain and simple.. Without hesitation. That is because in the past I have been honest and lost out (I know for a FACT) on the job.. I deeply believe it doesn't pay to be honest when you are a convict looking for a decent job.. There is too much prejudice out there relating to "CONVICTS".. No matter which way Hollywood paints or glamorizes people that have been to prison, and even got out and been successful, they will always automatically assume the worst.. It is the rare few (such as my current boss) that looks past this into who and what you are..

Ok.. My 2 cents have expired..

Fed-X

Excellent posts searcher and Fed x. I hve no idea what you guys go thru. I also agree with Lulu. Steady, dignified employment goes a long way towards rehabilitation and successful reentry.

The previous posts reflect my experiences to date. Did a total of 7 years, been out five and it's still a struggle. I still believe it's better to get your foot in the door and show your stuff than to have a zero chance in the first place. Yes, I stole and yes, I was punished as the law mandated in addition to losing everything I owned, my career, and my reputation. Fine, I can handle all of that. It should be over. I try to stay positve, but in reality, the Sentencing Guidelines are all life sentences. At least it's good not to be alone while having to eat this s*** sandwich served by the system.

Still haven't gave up yet, and seeking out other resources. I went to Dept. of Rehabilitation to see if I could get some assistance there. Most of my crimes were drug related (stealing to support habit) and I have completed a treatment program. Only thing w/ DOR is they want medical records and now here's another dilema--------no job=no insurance, no insurance = no medical records, but worth a try. Drug addiction is considered a disability, but who knows how one goes about getting this certified w/o insurance. Today will go apply for welfare (eventhough I hear ex felons cannot get) cuz my ass is broke. Tommorrow, have a job fair to go to, and just as I started to think I should be honest about the past, having read some posts here, I think the best policy is to lie my ass off.

And there's also the fines and restitution I have to pay. Over $1000 I don't have. I'm gonna pay those SOBs all in pennies someday

I thought lying on your application was against the law. My daughter won't do it for that reason, is what I think she said. Not just that, but you usually get fired anyway if they find out. It may work out okay in some cases, but is it worth the risk? Serious question here.

I dont know how lying solves anything. I mean they usally eventually find out anyway the the end resort could cost you that job. I think that has to add to ones fustrations. Which is surly not a good thing

Man---I can SO relate to all this!!! I have had several misdemeanors and wuz alwayz still able to find a good job---but---as soon as I got a felony on my record...Well...I,too,have been out for a year...been working very hard at being "good" and I have over a year "clean"...my felony wuz a 20 dollar,shoplifting thing...of course...while I wuz high...got bumped up to a felony because of my previous convictions...Well...people CAN change...I am just having a VERY hard time...I am working with my Mom right now,just cause no one else will give me a chance...IT REALLY SUX!!!:(

I do not recommend lying if you are asked on a job application or during an interview!!

I was fired 4 mths. into employment before because I lied.

It doesnt always happen, but its real shitty to have an income, than all of a sudden be out of a job!

Originally posted by goneSTRAIGHT
Still haven't gave up yet, and seeking out other resources. I went to Dept. of Rehabilitation to see if I could get some assistance there. Most of my crimes were drug related (stealing to support habit) and I have completed a treatment program. Only thing w/ DOR is they want medical records and now here's another dilema--------no job=no insurance, no insurance = no medical records, but worth a try. Drug addiction is considered a disability, but who knows how one goes about getting this certified w/o insurance.

Do you have a friend in San Francisco who will let you use their address for "residence" purposes? There are tons of free and sliding-scale clinics here, and I know the Haight-Ashbury clinics also run a drug detox program and might be able to help you get the records you need. There's also the Native American Health Center with locations in SF and Oakland, but they serve any one of any race I belive. Other than that, I'm not aware of any free health help in Oakland/Berkeley, but I know it's probably out there. If you contact the SF organizations, they may know of resources in other cities.

http://www.hafci.org/
http://www.nativehealth.org/

I let all of my prospective employers know of my past (good and bad - I've been turned down because I was OVER qualified). When I was hireing people (in a past lifetime I think) I immediately stopped the hireing process on individuals that I caught lying to me. On one occasion, I discovered a lie (on past experience) after the employee was with us for 9 weeks. Since he hadn't completed his probationary period with the company (Research Title of Austin) I let him go immediately. Yes, I did hire a convicted felon as an abstractor (he had some college background). But he could never become an escrow officer or hold any of the higher paying positions in the company (I've been told I can't go back into the field because I'm OVER qualified for the abstractor position and am now barred from serving as an escrow officer). Maybe we convicted felons should open our own businesses and hire convicted felons (could happen).

I think you're on to something there, Karl. There's a huge wealth of talent and experience going to waste while people who desparately want to earn honest money get more and more disgusted. I would bet that any employers who give felons (at least some, probably about the same percentage as people who have never been in) a fair chance would find unparallelled loyalty their reward...but meanwhile I think starting your own business if you have any inclination or aptitude would be a great way to go, and actively seeking others who've been in to work with could breally magical too...

OK, I started this topic and just wanted to give a progress report. Sorry to say, my attitude is no longer bad, it's f**ked up now. Here's why:

Phone Interview 1: Discussed contract positon w/ me and told them of my skills, blah, blah, blah. This went on for 20 minutes and they said I was perfect match. Then they called back asking for SSN#, I knew why and never heard from them again.

Phone Interview 2: This company had an online application that literally took 2 hours to complete, with all the different types of aptitude test given. I did mention my record on the application and was surprised when I got a call back. As if I knew the interviewer was looking directly at application, we first discussed experience, his company, then name, address, and all of a sudden he said he had to call me back the next day (the m**********r got to the part on application asking if I had record). Never heard from again.

Job Fair (Staffing Agency):
Usually staffing agencies will overwhelm an individual just to get them into their office to sign up (after all, they work under commission). I listed my record on application - never heard from again.

Job Fair (New Supermarket)
I applied for this job and got an interview letter in the mail, scheduling me to go to Empl. Dev. Dept. for interview. I've over 7 years experience (long ago before my college degree) yet at the interview we spent maybe a minute on my skills and the remaining time on what was on my record. The 2 sons of bitches were looking at me like I had a disease and acted like judges. Although I positively explain PART of my record, I know I will not hear from them again.

Interview (Safeway Headquarters)
This interview actually went well. Maybe because it was one of the first I've had that didn't asked me to fill out an application first and then getting to that dread question. So went directly to interview w/ 2 people and went quite well. Keeping my fingers crossed.

This s**t has a big impact on me and I am getting sick and tired of it. I used to think I was lucky cuz I have a college degree, but finding it harder than ever to find a job. I was so pissed off from the supermarket interview that I relapsed, slipped, used, got loaded off of crack (whatvever you wan't to call it) and justified ripping off something to make a quick $100. Why not? I know it's not right, but if I'm to be treated as a criminal then why not do as one? This was only a one time thing.

I will never again be honest about criminal background again on an application. If lying is so important, a company could always look at an application and find errors in previous employment dates (who remembers exact dates when they are so long ago?) and fire you for that. I'm really beginning to believe the only reason they ask you this question on an application is so that if you check yes, they won't have to fork out money to do background check.

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I can relate to this. 20 years military experience (intelligence officer, jumping out of airplances, that sort of thing). Masters degree. Got myself in trouble in and FBI sting over the Internet. Now considered a sex offender (there was no victim). The jobs I have not gotten or lost included TV satellite system installer (can't have felons going into people's HOMES, you know); wine wholesaler (I never DID understand that one); fry cook (lost that one the day an article about me appeared on the front page of the local paper). I decided I would go to school for a commercial drivers license tried to get pre-hired by a number of trucking companies. Some would have considered me with a felony on my record if I had experience. Others would have hired me with no experience, but not with a felony record. Most simply saw the felony as a bar to employment, period.
I have been out of prison for over two years, and sometimes it feels like I have made no progress at all.

A ray of hope?
One of the guys I've kept in touch with (yeah, it DOES happen) emailed me to say he just finished a commercial truck driving course at a community college. Depsite his record (tax evasion and conspiracy) two trucking companies offered him jobs, both at the low end of the general pay scale, but it will give him experience that should turn into better employment in that career field. One of the companies offered to lease a big rig to him, but I don't know the details. Perhaps this is something that might work out for some PTO readers.

If you are ever scheduled for an interview by someone in Human Resources - you can kiss that job goodbye cuz it's their job to be butt f**ks and screen you out. Doesn't matter how honest you are, or whether they'll be understanding - they won't.

On the other hand, if you meet directly w/ a manager in of department you are applying to, then you might have a chance.

Prior to 9/11 I managed to find 2 jobs, both in the Accounting field. One paid $17/hr, the latter paid $27/hr and none of these companies did a check on me. I got fired cuz my dumbass started using dope again and went to jail. Since 9/11 they check EVERYTHING now.

I used to get so pissed off at this instructor who came to lecture us on job seeking skills while I was in jail. He gave the usual resume/cover tips, but that bastard started listing possible job types like (paper route, washing cars, windows, garage sales, etc.-----surprised that f***head didn't list Lemonade Stand!!!!!! But after a year of looking and looking, I'm beginning to feel maybe he was right.

Does anyone know if one goes overseas to work, will a record bar you from working as it does w/ this f***ed up system we have?

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Have you checked with the temp services. I know they have a lot of "real" jobs and I have heard many people say that temp services give felons the chance that nobody else will. When my fiancee was out before he got a good job in the petrolium field. Making good money. After he was at the job a while the company hired him on full time. That was after being locked up for 10 years.

While in a halfway house I worked temp jobs - all were manual labor at mininum wage -really fun for someone just this side of his sixth decade, but I've heard of some jobs obtained via temp agencies leading to better things.

I looked into working in England, Australia, and The Netherlands - forget it, they don't want hardly anyone, let alone felons.

So I went to apply for GA and they want me to call Unempl. Insur. to get a printout.

I call and the rep. asks name, addr, phone, last time worked, why I need printout etc. ------- then the stupid s**t for brains asks me do I speak english. Damn, that's the kind of dumb f**ks that the state hires. I mean I have no accent or anything and told him "haven't I been speaking english to you all along?" He says....."Oh".

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Reading all your posts, it does not look to encouraging for my husband. He was in a halfway house for about 2 months, but is now on his way back to prison because he couldn't find a job. He was willing to take anything. I tried to talk to his case manager, as a professional, and she said it really didn't matter how bad the economy was or how difficult it was for a 3X felon to find a job. She said to stay there, he had to work.
I am an Employment Consultant...I know how hard it is for someone with a CLEAN record to find work. Unless there are some programs out there to help...There doesn't seem to be much hope. When my husband was looking for work, I tried and tried...I sent him or took him to every place I could find. I would advocate for him, nothing worked.

The worst thing is....he was finally accepted at a diner to be a prep cook...2 days later they put him back in jail cause he "didn't have a job". They would not wait for him to start working. Now he is on his way back to prison. By the time he finishes his sentence in March/2004, I know that job will not just be waiting for him.

After reading this post, it really made me angry on what someone with a felony on their record has to go through. Even if you didn't go to prison, but had probation instead, it still doesn't matter. If you havea a felony (no matter how severe), you now have a LIFE SENTENCE of PERSECUTION & REJECTION. We paid our debt to society, but society continues to punish us for the rest of our lives. You could be equally or better qualified than someone else for a job, but you will never get it. The only way, unless legislation changes (it won't), to get ahead is to go into business for yourself. In the meantime, I am inclined to check "No" in that box and take my chances of getting hired and having an income stream for a short period of time. Have you ever heard that expression: " It's better/easier to ask for forgiveness than permission".

Unfortunately, most companies are now running a backround check before you start work. It only takes 24 hours or less to get the information back. Trying the temp agencies sounds like a better option.

Before his latest stint in prison, my husband worked as a house painter - under the counter. Of course this means when he does retire, he will have almost nothing in the way of Social Security and no 401K.

I have nothing new to add but my miserable experiences in trying to locate employment. I was convicted of credit card abuse / larceny in 1991. I was a young, stupid greedy college student; unaware of how serious the charge was. I completed a Bachelor's Degree and then a Masters in Business Administration; all the while staying out of trouble. Now after three years of looking for work and being denied time and time again, I find myself penniless, homeless and without hope. I've applied to every possible company imaginable--over 900 resumes and applications. Obviously employers and society do not believe in rehabilitation or second chances. What is the point of living a life in a world where no one will let you join?? I had big dreams for my life at one time but they have all been shattered now. Good luck to the rest of you--I'm dropping out

GoneStraight, pay the grand back in all pennies?? That is some funny shit, however, this job situation with ex-cons, specifically felons is awful. One thing I will say though -- lying on a job ap about your crim hist or crim past is a definite no-no. Why definite? B/c they WILL do a background check, especially if you're Black and live in NY like my husband and especially if you live inthe south b/c and when they find out your background, you could be the best asset, the most charasmatic character, the guy who everyone in the company just loves b/c of your personality, etc., and they will definitely can your butt. So like homeslice said above, I don't know what sucks worse -- not having a job and income, or having one for a couple weeks only for the job and income to come to a screeching halt. GoneStraight, my husband is a predicament similar to you. The last 20 years of his life he's been in and out of prison, got a couple felonies under his belt, and he's just started a fresh one so he gone again til 2008. When it come to getting a job when he get out, he got more confidence than a Columbia University Masters Degree holder that he will get a job. I've printed this forum to show him what people are going thru b/c he is gravely disillusioned. During other releases after not landing jobs b/c I told him to be honest he became adamant about lying on the ap. I told him that is not the move, b/c they will fire him quicker than they hired him after finding out, and, they will, b/c they do look. So whereas he's supposed to help me, not only must I support him thru incarceration [b/c I love him] but during his releases I don't see loyalty, what he's shown me is "what's love got to do with it". With an attitude like that, of course he fucks up his two minutes of freedom b/c that attitude puts him back on the path he should not return to, and here we go a friggin again -- a fresh new bid. I want to just scrap this shit, but b/c one more felony or, in his case, what appears to be a felony, and he's lookin at 20 to life b/c after a while they figure, "shit, he gon keep comin back, give him 20 to life, let's see what happens after he pull 30, 35 of that". So while I feel he won't change b/c that big block head of his bears some twisted ass thinking, he is now trying to change his life around b/c he's hearing guys around him doing 20-life on account of accruing a rap sheet that look like his -- a bunch of bullshit over bullshit. I really wanna say "good-bye", but once you do that after you've put your all in, that's whey they straighten up, get with someone else, and live that life they've promised to you but never delivered to you. It wouldn't be so bad if he was loyal during his releases -- locked up he's better than perfect, but once let loose, he doesn't have a concept, clue, inclination as to what loyalty, respect and just being down for a mafucka means. The last thing I want to do is financially support him after release when he can't find a job b/c I feel he'll eventually after no success getting hired spend his days while I'm working and our nights cause he is a street person running around the streets like a rat in a big city, actin like a rat in NYC. I love him to death, but I want to leave, let him be someone else's headache, let someone else go thru the struggle of doing everything right by him but winding back up in the shitpot -- prison gap bus rides -- but I cannot leave him b/c God brought me into this troubled man's life for a reason, and for that reason God will not let me leave.

Seems this forum opened with venting, and has concluded, so far, with venting. I say thank God for PTO b/c no one else really wants to hear of our stories and struggles b/c folks don't understand for the life of themselves why we stand by these guys, especially when the man is a chronic recividist.

Hello goneSTRAIGT:

Be encouraged because someone will hire you. I do have a question, though. What did you earn your degree in and is there a way to start a new career with the same degree? I ask because I want to pursue a college education. However, I don't want to earn a degree that I can't use at some level.

I found this website about ex-felons who are college professors teaching criminal law. Finding this website gave me a lot of hope. I am going to pursue higher education in spite of having a felony conviction. I am finding that after two to seven years most employers don't hold it against you.

ginger :p

I printed the threads of this post out and sent it to my husband b/c he seemed to be in fairy tale land fars getting a job after release and it hit him like a reality check, so, I'm glad I came across this topic. Question, when the ex-con looking has been in out out of jail on stretches and skid bids and an assortment of other arrests all pointing to perhaps 15-20 arrests, each arrest an alias was used, 3 felonies included, what do you think the chances are of someone hiring this man? I would think "forget about it -- it's not gonna happen". I'd like to know what you all think, and don't sugar coat your response. I'm a raw girl, I spit the truth raw, and I would appreciate more than anything -- receiving the raw truth back. Thanks.

I mistakenly believed no one would hire me because I have a felony conviction. I was wrong. Although it is my first and last conviction I do see your point. However, men may have it a little easier than woman for these reasons: He can take up a trade like construction, plumbing, electrician, carpentry and what not. In these fields employers seem to be more forgiving as long as you have the skills they want.

All the best to you,
ginger

Your profile indicates a 2008 release date; unless you expect him to get out way sooner (presume his record works against him on that); I don't see the harm in letting him live in fairly tale land about his job chances. He's in a bad enough place now with probably more raw truth than he can handle, why make it worse?

Hope and dreams, realistic or not, are great mental aids. My brother, a both-feet-on-the-ground type did 8+ on a 10 year fed marijuana bust; the first several years the only thing that kept him going was his and his wife's detailed fantasy of moving to canada and starting over. About a year before his release, they dropped that in favor of realistic steps toward real employment. Instead of dwelling on the negative they researched options, eliminated unlikely ones and concentrated on increasing his chances to getting likely jobs. He was rehired by a former employer, is doing extremely well, will be off paper in 3 mos.

I printed the threads of this post out and sent it to my husband b/c he seemed to be in fairy tale land fars getting a job after release and it hit him like a reality check, so, I'm glad I came across this topic. Question, when the ex-con looking has been in out out of jail on stretches and skid bids and an assortment of other arrests all pointing to perhaps 15-20 arrests, each arrest an alias was used, 3 felonies included, what do you think the chances are of someone hiring this man? I would think "forget about it -- it's not gonna happen". I'd like to know what you all think, and don't sugar coat your response. I'm a raw girl, I spit the truth raw, and I would appreciate more than anything -- receiving the raw truth back. Thanks.

Hi Biscuit -- I'm not trying to bust my husband's bubble. I support him fully, that's why I'm still beside him. He's not really in fairy tale land; what he is is a very confidant man who believes someone will give him a job -- period. My only objective is that while someone could hire him, I just want him to be AWARE that the flip to that could be no one may want to give him a chance. What's the harm with letting him live in fairy tale land? The harm is I'd be acting phony, tellin him things like "you are so right Honey -- someone will give you a job" when my true feeling is "Honey, someone may give you a job, but on the flip, no one may". The harm is I just can't be phony, at no expense. I'd rather have him excited about what will happen WHILE ALSO BEING PREPARED in case it doesn't, rather than help gas him up only for him to get out here and get hit hard with the reality that no employer will touch him with a ten-foot pole. The harm is a mad crush of reality, whereas had he been clued beforehand, he could of seen the crush coming and thus not take it so hard. Like your brother's wife, I have some ideas for him, but unlike your brother, I seriously doubt my husband will be as fortunate in his job search b/c both men's situations are very, very different. After him reading these threads, he's in tune with reality now fars his prospective job situation, and that's all I want because that fairy tale stuff is to entertain and pamper children.

I'm just kind of leaping in here without knowing what kind of work your hubbies even do but I noticed that you are in NY. If you are not familiar with the Fortune Society a not for profit organization founded by ex inmates, I think it might be worth your while to look at their website and, if possible, their Summer 2003 issue. It is dedicated to the job search issue and I found some really solid ideas and help there. I have posted about the Fortune Society and the Fortune News before as I think that all inmates should have a subscription to this (its free for them and I posted a copy of the form in another site - if you want it, I'll find it). This publication is kind of like PTO for inmates. I have read every issue cover to cover and my hubbie (we're in CA) has circulated his copies around his quad so more can learn from others experiences, etc.

Check out the website - hope it helps - I believe there are archives where you can search for the Summer 2003 issue and the articles will come up. Anyway, good luck!

www.fortunesociety.org

Thank you Thank for being so Sweet for your encouraging words have consoled my soul, though he and I know about Fortune Society. My husband also has a book that lists prospective employers who hire convicts as well. I asked him to send it home b/c I'd like to see it. Everyone has a sad story to tell, as does my husband. Perhaps one of these folks will be understanding of his plight and give him a chance -- I mean I did. I stopped in here for a little support b/c I was really feeling hopeless about his situation and while I know that Fortune Society is not all it's cracked up to be, I do know that if you put in the work, that it can work for you. Thanks for the lift because, as I may sound above -- I really needed one. Peace.

For those with outstanding medical bills, if they are from a hospital, you can generally apply for their uncompensated care program. It is donations, contributions, scholarships etc. that is given tot he hospital. If approved, the hospital pays itself back with those funds to pay for your bill. PS, you have to be ineligible for Medicaid because of your income. I also find that those who choose to want to be drug/alcohol counselor or in that field, or working for juvenile detention centers as counselors or monitors, make good money and the "experience of being an ex-convict" works for you.

First, don't give up. Second, could you become self employed? Sounds like you have a lot of marketable skills there. Not to knock a college degree but after my hubby was
let out on bond his employer suspended him. He spent all his time before sentencing (nearly nine months) doing yard and landscaping work. He was trusted, worked like a mule, and knows that when he gets out there will still be grass to be cut and resown. Just an idea here. Third, please don't let that student loan go into default. Call them and ask for a postponement or deferral or whatever. Be upfront about your problems and have it on the record. Be sure you get the name of whomever you talk to and confirmation of any arrangements they offer. If it is a federally underwritten loan you could get in big trouble. I think you've had enough. What you need is some sunshine. Sounds like you're in California. There is a slew of Christian organizations on line that offer to assist California ex "vacationers" in job placement if you're inclined to go that way. BTW I think writing to the governor is great! Seriously. Go get 'im. Looking forward to hearing your good news. Keeping the faith. ~ WJ

I have been out for almost a year and I can relate. It is difficult to find employment if you are a convicted felon. I too am thinking of looking for a job as a substance abuse counselor or battered womens counselor. Those two things I definitely have plenty of experience with, especially the latter!!!

My husband went in and he was the only one working. I had to do something cux i have two kids. My first job was at a McDonald's for 4 months then i found this homebased business and it's great it has a wonderful support team just like on here. I then i took a second job at a factory to get out and meet new people and have some extra money to put into this business to make it grow even bigger for me. I will be quiting that other job very soon cuz this other one is getting to much. I would recommend anyone to do this it gives you the freedom and time to do what you want out of life. If anyone is interested just check out my website and read it over and see if it's something you'd want to do. www.deliveringonthepromise.com/MMagyar

Here's the California site. http://www.cyndislist.com/ca.htm This gal has about every resource listed you can think of in California. Hope to see good news posted soon.
~ WJ

Hello all,

I started this post a while ago and am surprised to see how much it has grown since. The good news is I found a job finally and am so happy :fb: . After about 1000 resumes and 50 interviews and people rejecting me like I'm some sort of terrorist, I finally found a job. I start Thursday this week as a Bookkeeper / Office Manager and will be getting $35k/yr. To everyone struggling out there, hang in there, something, someday will come an opportunity. I base my success on pure luck and not honesty or anything because out of all the applications I've filled out, this particular one DID NOT ASK if I ever been convicted, arrested, charged (or however they want to word it), so I did not have to answer that question. I am confident that my skills my prove themselves that I can and will be a good employee. Only thing I worry is that although the application did not ask about a previous record, can they still randomly check? (usually on application, you sign and give them consent to check, but again, question was never asked).

Thanks everyone for listening. I will still keep visiting this site in order to help others if I find other resources.

Oh my God, Bless Your Heart I am so happy to hear that. I was thinking about this thread yesterday and this morning I see you're here spreading the good news. It's been hard, you relapsed, but you came back and you stayed back drug free and your struggle to seek and gain employment came through for you. I always tell my husband anyone who can quit that stuff AND STAY OFF that stuff I got nuthin but PURE love for em so goneStraight, I gotta tellya, I love ya, got madd love for ya, and am SO HAPPY that you now have a job. Since showing the threads of this topic to my husband though he hasn't seen this this one about you finding work but I certainly will tell him tonight, he acknowledges that it won't be an easy task to get hired, and that's all I wanted. What his thing was that made him so adamant in his "I can get a job, that'll no problem" is he feel he could at any time apply as a bike messenger and get that spot. Anyhow, we're gonna try and come up with some ideas to start a business of our own, plus he's braced that aside from the messenger thing that the search and conquer won't be easy, and that wa my main concern cause I didn't want him to come out here only to be shocked at why it's not happening. I can't wait to tell you you found something. By best to you, always, and know that someone out here got madd love for ya cause you doin it man -- you keepin your act together.

P.S. I was so excited that work found you that I didn't even answer your question. Some places, like where I work for example where we don't even have applications, just interview and it's not rigid, and it sounds like God put you on a path to land a spot at one of those. B/c questions relative to your history hasn't come out thru application for the position, I don't think you have anything to concern yourself with there. Some jobs are cool like that, and not thru good luck but thru the grace of God's blessing, you got one. Hip hip horaaaaaaaaay!!!! (smile)

Congratulations! This is such wonderful news. You hung in there and it paid off.

As for the background check they MUST have your permission (signature) to do this.

ginger

Off I go, in a few minutes to my first day on the job and let me tell you, I'm nervous like s**t. I'm even on my hands and knees praying and thanking God that things will work out. I guess after so much negativity in my life, it's hard to accept a good thing happening to me. Thank you everyone for your support. Will post how my day went when I come home.


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It'll get better with each passing day. I'm so happy for you. I told my husband, and he was happy too! (smile) Do you have a girlfriend? I'm not applying for the position -- just curious. And also, when you did your time, was there a woman beside you, assuming, of course, though I shouldn't, that women ARE your thing. (smile)

Ok...not sure if this is a known fact or not, but I have used this company and now know of several convicted felons who have also used it. It is a temp company and their application is at www.narms.com they do mostly in store display stuff, some resets at grocery stores, mostly retail related stuff. The pay is anywhere from $10/hr to $120/day, most do not withhold taxes and all is done on 1099 forms which means you have to file your own taxes at the end of the year. A young man my son was recently locked up with filled out their application on line and no background checks, nothing, is working at a grocery store doing resets (rearranging shelves) mon-thurs 8am-5pm making $104 per day. They have locations all over the country. Not sure if it'll help, but it will be some fast cash for those of you struggling....let me know if you need any more info
Lisa

OK, so I haven't been back to this board in several months. Why? Cuz I felt pretty stupid to post all my anxiety and excitement about getting that job and everyone was so happy for me. Truth is, I only lasted 2 days and quit on the 3rd. Why? Cuz no person, boss or no boss is ever going to talk down to me and yell at me. The atmosphere was the s**ts. A small puny little office w/ just you and your boss, who also happens to be the President and CEO and Founder of the company. So day one, there's no welcome or introductions to the few others in the back, there's no showing me where to sit, where to s**t, or anything. Just him showing me some procedures that he is an expert at and expecting me to know it all right away, and if I ask questions he'll sometimes bark or make sarcastic comments on how much time he already spent training me. Then on things I did know how to do, he's constantly looking for mistakes or not trusting me to do it right. I think the last time anyone spoke or treated me like this was a prison gaurd. And what confirmed all my suspicions and made me decide to quit, was when I discovered the personnel file from 5 other agencies who sent over 5 different people to do this same job. None of them lasted more than a few days either. So I said f*** this, take this job and shove it. I may now be broke, but am happy I made the right decision.


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Sorry to hear about your trouble. Don't let it discourage you. I had a similar experience with a job as cook. This guy only had like six employees and had gone through 30 in the last year. That's a definite tip-off. I lasted two weeks (I am a damn good cook, by the way.) There are lots of jerks out there, but there are decent bosses too. I am now working in a temp job in a shipping department that will probably last as long as I want it to. It doesn't pay terribly well, and isn't very exciting, but it's a pay check, and the people are nice and seem to appreciate what I do. The temp agency route doesn't seem to be a bad one. I have tried several and have always been up-front with them about my background. A couple of agencies said no thanks, but most seem willing to give you a shot. There are good jobs out there, so keep looking.

goneSTRAIGHT,

I wanted to know have you found employment yet? I wanted to also give you encouragement. Are there any organizations in your area willing to assist ex offenders?

I've been out of work since late 2001. So I can understand how you feel. I want to relocate to the San Francisco area but it is VERY difficult for me to secure employment in my current area let alone the San Francisco area.

Keep your head up and be encouraged.

faithiskey :)

I'm pretty sure I posted about my finding this job back in January or February. Want to hear something funny? Hear it is July, seven months later and the same company is still looking for someone to fill this position. So I know it was not me, it's the dickhead of a boss that no one wants to work for. Just thought I'd share that.

faithiskey,

You may want to look at this link. You can post your resume on it and do a job search. I don't know if it will help, but you can try it.

http://www.sanfranrecruiter.com/

Patti