Changin' Lives
ONE EX-OFFENDER AT A TIME
By Andre J Durall
Changin’ Lives based in Houston is a newly formed organization developed to assist ex-offenders with starting their lives over after being incarcerated. Dolores Roberts, founder of Changin’ Lives developed this organization in 2002, for the sole idea to help provide ex-offenders the support and tools to over come obstacles. Ms. Roberts knows the ordeals that ex-offenders face when attempting to live a normal desired life. "We strive to make a difference in the lives of ex-offenders and their families."
Dolores Roberts witnessed first hand the extreme difficulties they encounter in obtaining employment. While working for Texas Workforce Commission, Ms. Roberts assisted many people in obtaining a job. There she was exposed to ex-offenders who were looking for jobs. Seeing the lack of commitment and the need to do more she started her own foundation. Knowing that many ex-offenders wanted a second chance, she created a foundation committed to these chances. Her clients are given job referrals where they are able to apply for employment knowing their criminal background is not going to stop them from being gainfully employed.
Changin’ Lives doesn’t stop there, there is more. They are committed with helping ex-offenders with preparing resumes to filling out employment applications, interviewing tips, their mentoring program, assistance with food, affordable housing, GED/ESL programs, parenting classes and more. Changin’ Lives become their shoulder to lean on. When an ex-offender needs transportation or has child care problems they are the ones to assist with finding a solution to the problems. Speaking with Ms. Roberts she states, “Once they get a job we just don’t let them go, we continue to grow with them.” Changin’ Lives is there for them for the long haul, until the ex-offender decides he/she does not need the program. They are more than welcome to come back anytime for assistance regardless of the situation.
Using resources within the public and private sector Changin’ Lives has developed and provided opportunities to create second chances. They emphasize on a better future, Ms. Roberts states, “Our goal is to reduce criminal recidivism, by providing reintegration to offenders in need of direction.” By providing a reliable foundation and community support this gives the ex-offender a secure future and helps them to maintain employment.
For those who want to start a new life, a better life, Changin’ Lives is here to offer resources and to let each person know they are not alone. If you feel these resources can benefit you or someone you know, please feel free to contact Changin’ Lives’ founder Dolores Roberts at changinlives2gther@yahoo.com or calling 832*496*5701. If you would like to volunteer as a mentor or assist in anyway Changin’ Lives would love your services.
ONE EX-OFFENDER AT A TIME
By Andre J Durall
Changin’ Lives based in Houston is a newly formed organization developed to assist ex-offenders with starting their lives over after being incarcerated. Dolores Roberts, founder of Changin’ Lives developed this organization in 2002, for the sole idea to help provide ex-offenders the support and tools to over come obstacles. Ms. Roberts knows the ordeals that ex-offenders face when attempting to live a normal desired life. "We strive to make a difference in the lives of ex-offenders and their families."
Dolores Roberts witnessed first hand the extreme difficulties they encounter in obtaining employment. While working for Texas Workforce Commission, Ms. Roberts assisted many people in obtaining a job. There she was exposed to ex-offenders who were looking for jobs. Seeing the lack of commitment and the need to do more she started her own foundation. Knowing that many ex-offenders wanted a second chance, she created a foundation committed to these chances. Her clients are given job referrals where they are able to apply for employment knowing their criminal background is not going to stop them from being gainfully employed.
Changin’ Lives doesn’t stop there, there is more. They are committed with helping ex-offenders with preparing resumes to filling out employment applications, interviewing tips, their mentoring program, assistance with food, affordable housing, GED/ESL programs, parenting classes and more. Changin’ Lives become their shoulder to lean on. When an ex-offender needs transportation or has child care problems they are the ones to assist with finding a solution to the problems. Speaking with Ms. Roberts she states, “Once they get a job we just don’t let them go, we continue to grow with them.” Changin’ Lives is there for them for the long haul, until the ex-offender decides he/she does not need the program. They are more than welcome to come back anytime for assistance regardless of the situation.
Using resources within the public and private sector Changin’ Lives has developed and provided opportunities to create second chances. They emphasize on a better future, Ms. Roberts states, “Our goal is to reduce criminal recidivism, by providing reintegration to offenders in need of direction.” By providing a reliable foundation and community support this gives the ex-offender a secure future and helps them to maintain employment.
For those who want to start a new life, a better life, Changin’ Lives is here to offer resources and to let each person know they are not alone. If you feel these resources can benefit you or someone you know, please feel free to contact Changin’ Lives’ founder Dolores Roberts at changinlives2gther@yahoo.com or calling 832*496*5701. If you would like to volunteer as a mentor or assist in anyway Changin’ Lives would love your services.
