Company employs, helps formerly incarcerated find work, get a second chance

For many people released from prison, finding a job can be the biggest obstacle to reintegration into society.

According to the Bureau of Justice Assistance, more than 17 million Americans with criminal records have difficulty finding employment. Without stable employment or financial stability, many end up returning to prison.

In April, Governor Stein declared this month “Second Chance Month,” a designation that draws attention to the challenges faced by people with criminal records.

A Sandhills business is stepping up to help people with criminal records re-enter the workforce and rebuild their lives.

D3 Delivery Moving Company in Fayetteville is working to change that. For the past five years, owner Jelissa Thomas has opened her doors to incarcerated people, offering them not only jobs but also a path to stability.

“We believe that work is a way to move forward in life rather than having to resort to something that could land you back into the justice system,” Thomas said.

For Thomas, the mission is personal. She watched her own father and brother struggle to find employment after their release. Now his brother is part of the D3 Delivery team.

“The employment options once you got a case were very slim. And so I wanted to start D3 Delivery to give people another option,” Thomas said.

During interviews, Thomas speaks directly to candidates about his hiring philosophy. “The first thing I say in my interviews is that having a criminal history here is not a big deal. But I have to be aware of what you may have there, because at the end of the day, with our move, with such personalized service, I still want to make sure my clients are protected.”

Thomas’ efforts attracted the attention of city leaders. In February, the city of Fayetteville awarded her and 22 others microgrants to help prevent crime and build safer neighborhoods.

“Microgrants are about building safer communities from the ground up,” said Nelson Soriano, Fayetteville’s neighborhood engagement manager. “The community knows what they need. Who better to solve this problem? We provide the resources. I think having a united front with the resources behind it is the way to get things done.”

Through D3 Delivery, Thomas hopes to give others the second chance his family needed.

“I always think about my past, my father was also involved in the justice system. And so I think about the little girl I was and the little girls who look like me, who may need their father to have a chance to work. It helps me wake up every day to continue my mission,” Thomas said.

SEE ALSO | Shelter offers hope to women exiting the justice system

This Friday, D3 Delivery and nonprofit Heal the Ville will host a “Life After Release” panel, sharing true stories and practical advice on managing money after incarceration.

Life After Release Panel

Location: 651 Country Club Drive, Fayetteville, North Carolina

When: Friday April 17

Time: 6 p.m.

Topic: The panel will discuss real stories from people who have experienced it. They will also discuss financial reset and financial literacy. The panel is open to justice-involved individuals, families and the community.

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