Wrap-around support helps Caleb find his way

Graduating with two degrees while incarcerated is “no easy feat”, according to Caleb*.

Having spent the last ten years in prison, Caleb dedicated himself to completing a Bachelor of Arts and a degree in project management. He says that with time constraints on his computer use, accessing online resources required meticulous planning.

Prison is where Caleb met his mentor, Lan, while attending the ‘Centre of Excellence’ expo – which offered participants the opportunity to meet with prospective employers and providers who support ex-offenders. At the conference, participants learn about job opportunities, and how wrap-around support services – such as Jesuit Social Services’ Jobs Victoria Employment Services (JVES) program – can support participants exiting the justice system.

After Caleb was moved to a transition centre as part of his path towards parole, JVES connected Caleb with an employer to undertake two-day structured work experience. Caleb’s JVES mentor, Lan, says due to Caleb’s commitment and professionalism he has been offered employment the moment he is released.

Lan’s support goes beyond helping Caleb find a job. Caleb’s relationship with his father was badly damaged by his conviction, and Lan is supporting him to repair the relationship. Lan has also provided a letter to the Adult Parole Board in support of his release, and offered continued employment support post-release, while he settles into his new job.

“As long as participants are willing to engage with our program and work with us to tackle their barriers to employment, we’ll do our best to support them in any way we can. From the beginning of his involvement with us, Caleb has shown himself to be honest and dedicated,” Lan says.

*This participant’s name has been changed for privacy.