James Jumpstarts His Career at Cleanslate

“I first came to Cara Collective in November of last year as a referral from the halfway house I was living in. At the time, I was really broken down. I had just finished serving a three-year federal prison sentence that cost me everything. I made one mistake that, if I could go back, I never would have done, but I wasn’t in control of my emotions at that time.

“I was ready to rediscover myself, but I needed help figuring out where to start.

“Coming to Cara helped me in so many ways. It helped me move on. It put structure back in my life. It helped me redeem myself. I learned to let go of those things from my past and to see a new way of life.

“That winter, I also started working on a Cleanslate crew. Being out of the workforce for years, I saw Cleanslate as a jumpstart for my career. I was dedicated. I never missed a day and was never late for a route. Plus, I needed to earn money and Cleanslate provided that for me.

“Working all winter in Chicago, it was brutal cold, but I gave it my all every day on the routes. I loved being out in the different communities and working with the other crew members. Every day, I was the first guy on the truck always giving 110%. I just want to be an inspiration to others.

“In June, I was voted Cleanslater of the Month by my teammates. That meant a lot to me. It meant my hard work was paying off. It showed me that I still had a lot to offer as an employee. I was very proud of that.

“Currently, I am interviewing for a job and waiting to hear on the final steps. I’ve gone into this process feeling prepared, focused, and relaxed thanks to everything I learned at Cara and Cleanslate. They took me to another level and got me ready.

“I am excited about what’s next for me. I can’t wait to get my own apartment and a car. It’s been a long journey, but I am ready to start my future.”

Your support this Cara Day of Giving means another job seeker like James gets the chance to transform their life. Click here to make a gift today.