Program Details

After being released from prison, he was determined to rebuild his life but didn’t know where to start. “I was hungry to restart,” he shared. With little support and an urgent need for employment and SNAP benefits, he connected with Metropolitan Family Services at a job fair — a moment that would begin to shift everything. There, he met Ms. Banks, who “spoke to me without judging me… she looked past my record and looked at me as a human being needing services.” Learning to trust wasn’t easy for Alex, but Ms. Banks’ patience and belief in him made all the difference. “If she had never given me a chance, I probably would’ve gone back to the streets.”

Through Metropolitan Family Services, Alex enrolled in forklift and welding training and continued applying for jobs despite repeated rejections due to his background. Eventually, he secured employment at ACME Lumber, where he gained experience and was promoted to take on additional responsibilities. “The opportunity I got was because of Metropolitan,” he said. More than the job, he gained confidence, skills, and stability. “Switching my mindset from the streets to using my strengths changed everything.”

What impacted him most was feeling genuinely supported. “The happiness I hear from Ms. Banks because of the things I’ve accomplished — I can hear the smile when we’re on the phone, and it’s better than getting paid,” he shared. “Having someone acknowledge my accomplishments, especially when growing up, my parents couldn’t always be there to see them, makes me feel worthy and brings me joy.”

Today, he is proud of how far he has come and encourages others to stay committed to their own growth. “Believe in yourself… the program will lead you in the right way, but you have to put the work in.” His story is a powerful reminder that with the right support, patience, and belief, real change is possible.