By JEANNI RITCHIE
The Second Chance Job and Resource Fair was held last week at the Alexandria Mall. Jointly sponsored by the United Way of Central Louisiana and the Louisiana Department of Corrections, this collaborative effort was aimed to assist citizens with reentry into the community by providing them with access to vital resources and employment.
Everyone deserves a second chance. Anthony Thomas, Community Coordinator for the Louisiana Prisoner Reentry Initiative, and Jason Parker, Reentry Program Manager for the Alexandria region, coordinated more than 40 vendors who offered employment and client service opportunities. Having spent a decade in rehab and street ministries, I know how it important hope is in new beginnings.
“Events like this are pivotal in bringing the community closer, fostering cooperation among service providers, and amplifying opportunities for our justice-involved citizens,” Thomas states.
The United Way of Central Louisiana extends its heartfelt thanks to all who supported this fair and praises the efforts of Central Louisiana in its commitment to inclusivity and support for all its members.
For more information on this program, contact www.uwcl.org.
Jeanni Ritchie is a contributing journalist who features programs in Central Louisiana that promote community, education, mental health, and inclusivity. She can be reached at jeanniritchie54@gmail.com.
