Felons' mom wants to help them get jobs

A CLOSER LOOK AT THE FAMILIES OF MASS INCARCERATION

I live in North Carolina and I have two sons. One is 24 and the other is 21. The 24 year old got in trouble 5 years ago for DWI and for having less than an ounce of marijuana on him. He went to rehab and has worked construction and done pylon work. He can not get employment anywhere because of his record what can be done? He has not been in any trouble since then.

The 21 year old has had several issues with Driving with no operators license, DWI, drinking underage. He was charged back in 2016 at the time of the incident but did not go to trial until last year. So he decided to get it over with and do his days in jail to not have to deal with probation. Recently he tried to get on with a company he worked for before and because of the charges they would not hire him back.

How long does someone have to keep on paying for crimes committed years ago. Both these boys deserve a chance to make it in this world, unfortunately they were not able to attend college because being a single mother I could not afford it. I have worked for the same company for over 20 years, this same company is the one that would not hire my son back. At some point doesn't the state step in and say enough is enough, a lot of the people we have tried to hire have records of some sort and because of it we can't hire them, so instead people like me who have fended by myself raising two boys have to support them when they go on welfare. What can I do or they do to find a job?

Charmane,

Felons' mom wants to help them get jobs

Hello Charmane,

I'm sorry your sons are having so much trouble. I suggest that they apply for employment at temporary agencies. Temp agencies are always looking for good people. When applying for temporary employment, ex-offenders and felons should apply at smaller independent agencies rather that the large nationally known agencies. Usually smaller agencies do not have a parent companies setting hiring restrictions on them. They hire anyone they choose. Often if temporary employees are good, they are hired on a permanent basis.

Another option is to apply at construction contractors. Contractors are always looking for employees who can get to work on time and put in a full days work for a full days pay. Those with special skills like masonry or carpentry would be given a fair chance regardless of their criminal records

There is also a link below to companies that give chances to qualified felons.

The best of luck to you and your sons.