While serving a prison sentence, Gilbert had a realization that would change the course of his life: “I realized, I’m the problem, and I said, I’m the one that’s got to change this.
“I decided I’m not going to wait till I get out of prison. I’m going to start right now.”
He began by writing down his goals – reconnecting with his children and finding meaningful employment.
Gilbert understood that even in prison, opportunities existed for those willing to pursue them.
He enrolled in every class available, determined to build a better future. That’s when he discovered the Rock City Reentry Program.
Rock City Reentry works with incarcerated Arkansans before and after their release to ensure they can secure employment and maintain it.
Participants receive support while still in prison, including coaching to build basic skills and develop a prerelease plan. After release, the program continues to provide guidance and resources to help individuals successfully reintegrate into the workforce and their communities.
For Gilbert, it was a game-changer: “Through the Rock City Reentry Program, I was able to get my heavy machinery operator’s license up to a D8 bulldozer. They helped coach me along in things that I needed, as I got out.”
But earning qualifications is only part of the journey – finding a job is another challenge.
Fortunately, Gilbert’s lifelong friend Jim, who owns a local business, saw his potential and offered him a position.
Jim shares his confidence in Gilbert: “I can leave a job site and let him run the machinery because I know that he is certified. He shows up every day.
“He does exactly what he’s told. And that’s all you can ask for out of a friend and an employee.”
More employers are beginning to recognize the value of hiring from this community.
As W.J. Monagle, Executive Director of the Little Rock Workforce Development Board, shared: “By hiring them, they could be hiring some of the best employees that they ever hire because they’re so thankful, dedicated and grateful that they were given that opportunity.”
Gilbert’s success is deeply meaningful to his Program Manager, Courtney: “The most rewarding thing for me is how happy he is, and the fact that he has built the relationship back with his family. To me, that means the world.”
Gilbert is equally grateful for her support: “She’s been just absolutely wonderful keeping in contact with me, letting me know that she’s always there, because they still check up on me.
“Anything I need, I know they’re going to be there for me.”
Today, Gilbert is thriving: “The last year and a half of my life has just been so fantastic. I’ve gotten my kids back in my life, my family back in my life. I have a fantastic girlfriend, amazing support system.”