Johneak Discovers the Value in Himself
“Before Cara, I graduated high school and did a couple semesters at college. But when I got back to the city, I was associating with friends and people I grew up with and ended up getting in trouble, ultimately going to prison. So, while my friends and family kept moving forward in their lives, I got stuck serving 11 years in federal prison.
“When I got out, I felt so behind. All I wanted to do was catch up. I worked two jobs for four-and-a-half years, but I could never catch up and I was stuck in a cycle working contract to contract. But I never let it get me down. I knew there was something bigger coming my way.
“Toward the end of one of my contracts, a guy I supervised on my crew asked to stop by Cleanslate so he could apply to Cara. While I wasn’t there to sign up for Cara, but when I heard Rosetta explaining what it did—how it wasn’t just about jobs, it’s about helping people rebuild their lives—I knew this was what I was looking for. I ended up signing up, too.
“Cara helped me see the value in myself, because it’s not only my experience, but just my presence that makes an impact. I would wake up and be on my Cleanslate route at 6:00 am every day, and I started to notice other people turning up early. I’d see them start to care a little more, try a little more, and commit themselves a little more. That feels good, to be able to motivate someone with just how you show up. It keeps me showing up and showing out.
“I joined Cara to support a friend, and maybe line up my next job, but what I got out of it was so much more. Because what Rosetta said was true. Cara isn’t just about jobs, it’s about helping people rebuild their lives. I’m able to set my sights on a dream job—one with job security, steady pay, benefits, work that keeps me on my feet, and one where I won’t be looking for new work every few months. Now, I’m on my path to that job.”
Each year, Cleanslate helps over 500 job seekers by providing short-term employment which provides a chance to learn new skills, build their resumé, and earn an income while they find permanent employment. Your donation today helps ensure these opportunities will be there for job seekers like Johneak. Click here to make your gift.
