From Parole to Career Success
A New Direction, A New Career, A New Life
Jason Patterson was referred to Goodwill through the Offender Success Program (OS) in May 2024.
This wasn’t the first time Jason had paroled; however, he was determined to make it his last. During our conversation, Jason recalled the years he spent in and out of incarceration. With few employment skills, he turned to the only survival skills he knew, which inevitably would lead him back to prison.
This time was different. The day Jason paroled, he met with Melissa Clark, a Goodwill Resource Navigator. At the time, Jason didn’t have a place to call home, employment, transportation, or training. Melissa discussed Jason’s needs and goals with him, and he was placed in commercial placement at Nova Motel. Jason recalls feeling that he finally had a safe, quiet place to make decisions about his future.
Jason soon found employment; however, he didn’t have transportation. Melissa issued him a bicycle, allowing him to get to work.
When Melissa suggested the Truck Driving Program (TDP), Jason was interested. He enrolled in the TDP and worked with MWWC for funding. With each success, Jason’s confidence grew. He attended training at FCG and was approved to stay in lodgings funded by OS. Jason graduated from the program with his CDL in March 2025.
After graduation, Jason was offered a position with Foreway Transportation. However, there was a barrier: Foreway required daily training. Jason did not have transportation or the funds to stay in a hotel. Melissa, knowing how determined and serious Jason was about starting his career and putting his past behind him, advocated for him to receive lodging funds. Soon after, Jason was employed at Foreway.
“This program has changed the trajectory of my life.”
Jason
When asked about his experience, Jason replied, “This program has changed the trajectory of my life.” He went on to say that without Goodwill, OS, MWWC, FCG, and Foreway supporting him and giving him a chance, he doesn’t know where he would be today. Jason wants to express his appreciation for all of the support and assistance.
Offender Success Programming/Justice-Involved Programming (JIP): Offender Success is a statewide program implemented by the Michigan Department of Corrections that fosters change and success for those in prison, as well as those on parole or probation. Program participants receive collaborative, wrap-around support services that builds a foundation for successful transition back to communities and the workforce.
