Married for 15 years, a homeowner, and now record-free, Jay sees boundless opportunities ahead for himself and his family.
From a troubled childhood navigating the court system at 11 years of age, to a 49-year-old man with a clean slate, Jay refuses to let his history define him any longer.
Jay’s life took a hopeful turn when he saw an online ad for a record clearing clinic, run by The Promise, powered by United Way, and hosted by our partners at The Elevation Project.
A conviction shouldn’t hold someone back from achieving their potential. That’s why The Promise is focusing on record sealing and employment access.
A conviction shouldn’t hold someone back from achieving their potential. That’s why The Promise is focusing on record sealing and employment access.
Through the Jobs & Opportunity Challenge, The Promise is partnering with trusted community organizations to expand outreach, run record clearing clinics, and offer free legal advice.
Skeptical at first, but optimistic, Jay took a leap of faith. Soon thereafter, he completed the necessary paperwork and began the expungement process.
Shortly before his birthday, he received an early gift: confirmation of an expungement. “It’s the gift that continues to give for the rest of my life,” he said.
It’s the gift that continues to give for the rest of my life.
With an expunged record, Jay envisioned a future filled with possibilities and credits The Promise for laying the groundwork for his fresh start.
Maybe he would work as a 911 emergency operator, become a correctional officer, police officer, or firefighter. The common bond? Each job lets Jay help others.
“As a child, I made regrettable choices. Poverty will do that to you. The expungement opened job opportunities, allowing me to make up for lost time and have a future for my family and myself,” he said.
As a child, I made regrettable choices. Poverty will do that to you. The expungement opened job opportunities, allowing me to make up for lost time and have a future for my family and myself.
Transforming his initial embarrassment into pride, Jay embraces the opportunities that lie ahead, no longer held back by his past mistakes.