When people are released from prison, they often have a hard time finding work.
Davis: “In a country that claims justice is for all, people are serving time in prison, but they are still devastated and scarred because they have so little opportunity.”
Scott Alan Davis works for SEEL, a company that provides energy efficiency services.
The company has partnered with utility company Ameren Illinois to provide training in the industry to people at the Peoria Adult Transition Center in Illinois. The center houses people who are still incarcerated but are participating in work release programs.
Davis: “And when they come out of transitional housing, they’re able to get well-paying employment and be able to take care of housing and other things that take care of themselves.”
Over a three-year period, approximately 25 participants were employed in energy efficiency jobs upon retirement.
The program also offers mental health, financial literacy and other counseling.
Davis says this opportunity can change people’s lives.
Davis: “And it’s a generational shift, not just in their lives, but for everyone who’s going to come after them, and now they have different opportunities… So it’s very exciting.”
Report credit: Sarah Kennedy / ChavoBart Digital Media
We help millions of people understand climate change and what to do about it. Help us reach more people like you.
