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Phoenix Chapter of TimeDone Empowers Reentry
6 Sep
Summary
- TimeDone advocates for policies to remove barriers for 'second-chance' applicants.
- Employers find 'second-chance' employees easy to retain after recruitment.
- TimeDone's Phoenix chapter launched recently to aid reentry.
A new chapter of TimeDone, a national organization supporting individuals with past arrests or convictions, has been launched in Phoenix. This initiative focuses on removing policy barriers and combating stigma for 'second-chance' job applicants, who frequently experience higher rates of unemployment.
The organization's national director, Saad Soliman, highlighted the significant demand for reentry support, noting that events are often at full capacity. Soliman views these workforce reentry challenges as an economic development issue, emphasizing the value of a capable and motivated labor force currently excluded by administrative policies.
Vincent Valenzuela, the new Arizona statewide chapter coordinator for TimeDone, was inspired to enter the reentry field after his own experiences. He found it challenging to secure employment and housing after his release in 2022, eventually succeeding through an apprenticeship and a personal recommendation.
Brandon Varner, who has spent time in prison for various offenses, shared how employment helped him maintain sobriety and engage positively. He now works as a peer support navigator, utilizing his experiences to assist clients.
