Hire an ex-con? You bet!

As a widower who lives alone, I mess around a bit in the kitchen. Frankly, my kids top my cooking abilities, but I assure you that I love good food and I eat well. 

One of my favorite TV shows is Diners, Drive-ins and Dives. A recent article about this program pointed out that producer Guy Fieri has been in every state. That led me to dig a little deeper. One of the places he especially liked in Pure Michigan was a joint in Lansing: Eastside Fish Fry & Grill. 

It’s not your typical restaurant. When you go to Eastside for chicken or fish, they’ll fry or grill your selection, OR you can take it home to cook yourself. 

After visiting Eastside, Guy Fieri concluded: “The prices are fair, the portions are generous, and the flavor is unforgettable!” 

But that’s not what caught my attention. 

The founder and owner of this unique eatery is Henry Meyer, and he’s an ex-felon! Henry got a second chance to turn over a new leaf, and he now employs and trains non-violent felons to pay it forward! He started his business from nothing and, with their help, turned it into a staple in his community. 

I have appreciated the fact that some of our local businesses have done a great job in hiring special needs men and women. But hiring those who have served time is much rarer. Sadly, in our country many states block ex-convicts from jobs, housing, and even voting. Strict background checks close many opportunities. 

Yet, a friend of mine---now retired---made it a practice to hire these men and women in his small industry and he insisted that they made excellent employees. I completely agree. Two staff members of HUMANITY FOR PRISONERS have served time, and a third is the daughter of a woman who had spent years in prison! 

I found a recent blog, written by Muriuki Purity in Mind Matters, that supports this idea that formerly incarcerated men and women can be great employees. She listed several key points that we think all employers should consider: 

-Loyalty

“Ex-offenders often value second chances more than most employees. Because of this, they stay longer in their jobs and avoid unnecessary job-hopping.” 

-Strong work ethic

“Many former inmates want to rebuild their lives after release. This desire pushes them to be more focused and determined at work.” 

-Reduced crime rates

“Steady jobs keep former inmates focused on building their future. Employment reduces the chance of falling back into crime.” 

-Positive social impact

“Hiring ex-offenders sends a strong message of inclusion and hope. It shows society that people can change and deserve second chances.” 

We encourage Michigan employers to give them a second chance. 

America is the land of the second chance - and when the gates of the prison open, the path ahead should lead to a better life.

George W. Bush