Summit of Hope helps ex-offenders start over

Summit of Hope

The Summit of Hope event at PDC 30 in Aurora Sept. 15 was attended by more than 445 ex-inmates from the Chicagoland area. It offered parolees assistance with such tasks as obtaining a driver’s license, applying for jobs, mock interviews and education/training services. Photo courtesy of Painters District Council 30

Fox Valley Labor News
staff reports
Thursday, Sept. 24, 2015

AURORA — PDC 30 hosted the Illinois Department of Corrections’ Summit of Hope event Sept. 15, a “one-stop” fair to help ex-offenders land on their feet after serving time in prison. More than 445 people came to the event. During the event, volunteers guided ex-offenders through a variety community services and resources to help facilitate their reintegration into the community.

Services offered included state identification, counseling, transportation, food, clothing, shelter, child support services, primary health care referrals, health screenings, veterans’ information, Social Security Administration, employment services, mock inter views and education/training services.

Summit of Hope

State prison system’s outreach administrator Marcus King, second from left, greeted participants during the event. Photo courtesy of Painters District Council 30

PDC 30

PDC 30 had a booth at the the Summit of Hope event, educating participants on the benefits of becoming a union painter. Manning the booth was PDC 30 Organizer Lionel Espinoza, PDC 30 Director of Governmental Affairs Mark Guethle and JATF Director of Apprenticeship & Training Stephen Lefaver. Photo courtesy of Painters District Council 30