When the words “second chance” come to mind, they are usually used in context with a relationship or getting a second shot at joining a team. Through DenverWorks, however, Jenni Talcott is giving individuals a second chance at something much bigger–a second chance at life.
DenverWorks is a non-profit, faith based organization that helps newly released offenders from prison find jobs, build resumes, dress for job interviews and regain basic life skills.
Talcott, a junior double-majoring in criminology and sociology, interns as a case manager for DenverWorks and works directly with released offenders.
“We see a lot of people that you normally wouldn’t meet in everyday life, we’ve seen everything from murderers who’ve been in for thirty years, to guys that have been on probation for marijuana use or possession,” said Talcott.
One client particularly stood out for Talcott through his story, his appearance and his strong desire to change.
“It can be scary at times when you see these guys walk in, and one in particular, Devin (whose name has been changed for confidentiality) stood out in particular to me,” said Talcott. “He walked in, and he’s an African American man around 6-foot and 250 pounds with tattoos from head to toe including his face, and very intimidating looking.”
After looking over Devin’s record, Talcott learned that he had several felony charges on drug-related incidents and had been a drug dealer for 12 years, starting when he was just 16-years-old.
“I asked him if he could tell me about it, and he just broke down crying,” said Talcott. “He said ‘I never wanted my life to be this way, and I don’t want to keep doing what I’m doing,'”
Talcott and DenverWorks have helped Devon work on his resume and set him up with clothes and interviews.
The recidivism rate in Colorado is 6 percent, meaning that over two-thirds of offenders will commit new crimes after released from prison.
DenverWorks’ client pool, however, has a recidivism rate around 30 percent, cutting the state’s rate in half.
Their clients are getting more jobs and becoming more productive citizens in the community instead of going back to a life of crime.
“The program helps the city as a whole, which then turns around and helps the city and community become a safer place,” said Talcott. “My job is 30 percent knowledge and 70 percent instinct, because at the end of the day you can’t forget who you’re working with. We don’t carry weapons or anything. We just arm ourselves with our faith and our love for these people.”
Students can get involved and volunteer by calling the organization at 303-433-0300 or by visiting www.denverworks.org/home.html,= and click on the “volunteer” link to get more information to get involved in the clothing closet or mentoring departments. For infortmation on other internships and upcoming internship fair, visit the career center at www.du.edu/studentlife/career.
