Success Stories
Read about some successful stories below.
Case study –
David*
Before his incarceration, David* was a successful IT manager for an IT telecommunications company. After his release, David faced a long list of challenges when trying to re-enter the workforce due to the significant gap in his resume.
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David’s case worker became a crucial part of his journey back into the workforce. With his support, David rebuilt his resume, learned to optimise applications with AI tools—boosting his interview callbacks by 50%—and regained confidence through interview preparation. His mentor also worked with his parole officer to ensure his new role aligned with his conditions, enabling him to accept a full-time IT Manager position.
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However, David knew he needed to update his skills to stay competitive. With funding that we helped him to access, he enrolled in specialised training to align his skills with current industry standards, enhance his professional development, and strengthen his long-term career prospects.
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David’s journey highlights the importance of supporting people with criminal records to overcome employment barriers. His return to the community was marked by anxiety about job prospects, but with dedicated support, he not only secured employment but also found a path to expand his qualifications and build a long-term career. Through mentorship, strategic job search guidance, and opportunities for skill development, individuals like David can successfully reintegrate into the workforce and make meaningful contributions to their communities.
Case worker quote:
"It's about more than just a job. When people feel heard and supported - when they realise they're not alone - that's when real work happens. That belief in their potential is what gives them the courage to rebuild their lives.”
Participant quote:
"I was an IT manager before my incarceration, but I didn't know if I could ever get back to that career. My mentor didn't just help me find a job; they helped me overcome real-world obstacles. They showed me how to navigate the job market, worked with my parole officer to clear my path, and even helped me get certified in the latest skills. It’s because of their support that I'm back in my career and rebuilding my life."
Case study 1 – Mike*
Mike’s* journey to a fresh start began with a pre-release referral from Corrections Victoria to Jesuit Social Services to explore how our organisation could support his re-entry into the workforce.
With Mike’s long period of incarceration and limited work history, we identified employers that might be open and willing to offer him a second chance. We registered him for the Jobs Victoria Employment Services program, and even before his release date was confirmed, we met with him to reassure him of our support.
Knowing that Mike’s early parole obligations could pose a challenge, his case worker proactively contacted his parole officer to advocate for adjustments that would make it easier for him to start work. By connecting Mike with one of our employer partners, Jesuit Social Services helped bridge the gap between his parole requirements and employment. Their efforts paid off—the Adult Parole Board agreed to modify some conditions to support his job goals.
Thanks to our referral, Mike was invited to an interview and quickly offered a job. Recognising the financial challenges he faced and his limited family support, we used Jobs Victoria Employment Services funds to help him access work attire and obtain the tickets and licenses he needed to stay competitive in the construction industry. Because his role involved early starts and required reliable transport, we also provided Myki and Uber vouchers to cover his initial travel costs.
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Recently, Mike faced a court matter related to his suspended driver’s license. Jesuit Social Services provided a letter of support urging the court to reconsider the decision and reinstate his license so he could get to and from work. With backing from both his employer and Jesuit Social Services, the court lifted the suspension, restoring his independence and ability to commute to work.
Mike’s journey proves that second chances, paired with guidance and opportunity, can change lives for the better.
Case worker quote:
“Our job is to look at the whole picture. It's not just about a resume - it's about walking alongside them as they navigate everything from pre-release planning and creating an employment pathway to managing parole conditions and attending court matters. By removing those barriers, we clear the path for them to focus on what’s important: rebuilding their lives and careers.”
Participant quote:
“When I got out, I knew finding a job was my priority, but I didn't know how to even start. I was worried about my record, my parole conditions and starting all over again. Jesuit Social Services didn't just help me to fill out a resume and wish me luck. They worked with my parole officer to make sure I could actually accept a job offer, and they even helped me get an interview with a company that believes in second chances. I got the job, and they helped me get what I needed to start, such as work gear, training and transportation. When my driver's license came up in court, they wrote a letter explaining how important it was for my job. That letter made a difference. They've been with me every step of the way, and I'm now focused on my future.”