“A little over two weeks after I got out of jail, I was given a second chance—and that opportunity changed my life.”
—Jeremy Hays
Normally, someone who is released from incarceration hits the ground running. There are so many things that they are required to do upon release—get in touch with a parole or probation officers, get identification, a driver’s license, and for many a place to live. There is little or no time to stop and look back and see who might have helped.
But Jeremy Hayse stopped. He did look back and wrote this note to 2nd Chance Indiana's job counselor, Kendra Walker, who gave him a hand up when he needed it. He says:
“A little over two weeks after I got out of jail, I was given a second chance—and that opportunity changed my life. At that time, I still had two open cases in Indiana and was trying to figure out how to start over. I knew I couldn’t go back to the life I had before, so I turned to God for guidance and strength.
“Through faith, I found a new purpose and a desire to do better. I decided to enroll in school and focus on completing my classes, even when things were hard. With determination and prayer, I finished all my classes and started building a new path for myself.
“Getting a job with a second-chance employer through 2nd Chance Indiana, gave me more than just income — it gave me dignity, structure, and hope. It reminded me that people can change and that everyone deserves the opportunity to prove themselves. I show up every day grateful for the chance to work and to keep growing.
“I’m not the same person I was before. I’ve learned from my mistakes, and now I’m focused on faith, education, and hard work. I’m thankful for the people and employers who believe in giving others a second chance, because without that belief, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
Jeremy Hayse will never see the inside of a correctional facility again. He is free, and he is successful. We are so grateful for his message, and for the opportunity to be able to help others who want a better life.
God bless them all,
Jim
