Indy Easley leads Fresh Start program for formerly incarcerated people in Birmingham, Alabama

“Jumerrill Fields is starting over at 52 after nearly two decades serving sentences in the justice system. As one of the first graduates of a new program, this time he’s equipped with a deeper purpose, the right people around him and a hopeful mindset about what’s next.

“Fields grew up in Brighton, Alabama, a small community just east of Hueytown. Of the past 20 years, he’s spent 19 serving time, with the most recent lasting a full decade as a result of violating parole following an eight-month release.

“This time, he says he experienced a shift, punctuated when he learned his mother was very ill as his release date approached.

“When he heard about STRIVE’s Fresh Start program, he saw another opportunity to make good on that promise.

When his classmates learned [he struggled with reading], they were quick to help whenever he needed it. … That was inspiring to see.

“The Fresh Start program is designed for individuals impacted by the justice system who are ready and committed to a new beginning.

“Once a person applies, qualifies and enrolls, the program begins with establishing stability and support, then builds toward long-term goals, says Fresh Start Program Manager Indy Easley [Leading with Conviction™ 2023].

“STRIVE Fresh Start participants receive:

• Comprehensive needs assessment
• Referrals for housing, wellness and other basic services
• One-on-one case management
• Literacy support and personal development training
• Industry-specific training in high-demand fields

“In Birmingham, the program collaborates with Jefferson State Community College to offer training in:

• Logistics/forklift operation
• Telecommunications/cable installation

“These jobs were selected based on local demand to increase employment success for graduates, Easley says.

“Jumerrill pursued the forklift operation track and is part of the first cohort of six students who graduated on May 16.”

Read the full story at BhamNow.com.

(Photo: STRIVE Birmingham Fresh Start Program Manager Indy Easley, graduate Jumerrill Fields and Career Coach Precious Weah at program graduation. Credit: Antonio Boswell / STRIVE Birmingham)