State Hosts Resources Fair To Help Ex-Cons Stay On Positive Track
CHICAGO (CBS) -- Dozens of ex-convicts showed up at a Chicago Park Districrt fieldhouse on the Northwest Side on Thursday to take advantage of resources to help them make a good life for themselves outside of prison.
The Summit of Hope at Riis Park was the first resources fair of the year staged by the Illinois Department of Corrections, to offer more help to parolees and probationers who are adjusting to their return to society.
"I lost my ID, so I was able to come here and get a new ID," said Henry Bryant, who spent six months in prison for driving on a suspended license. "I think it's a good thing. You know, this really, it helps a lot of people out that need help. It's really enlightening."
Darius Allen, 26, said he got information about getting health care, as well some support in obtaining a commercial driver's license. He said he's determined to keep going and not lose faith. He spent nearly four years in prison for burglary.
"I made a mistake, and I obviously got to deal with it. All you can do is try," he said.
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IDOC Deputy Chief of Parole Dion Dixon said reintegrating into society is as tough as parolees make it. He said on parolees are offered resources, and it's up to them to take advantage of them.
"We do everything in the Department of Corrections Parole Division to make sure we encourage them to stay on the positive track," he said.
IDOC invited 800 parolees and probationers the event. Last year, the state staged 13 such resource fairs across the state.
"We have the opportunity for them to receive state IDs or driver's licenses. There are job resources here, too; but we also have health screenings, drug treatments. They have the option of opening up bank accounrts," IDOC spokesman Marcus King said.
