Jeremy Price, a Male Community Reentry Program (MCRP) participant, recounts his story transitioning from serving a 19-year-to-life sentence in an institution to being back in the community. He also discusses the pivotal role the reentry program has played in his success since being back.
“None of it would have been possible without MCRP,” Price said.
Watch the video (story continues below):
Nearly a year out and going strong
After 11 months back in the community, Price has built an inspiring list of accomplishments. Using opportunities provided by MCRP, Price connected with Superior Court Judge Craig Mitchell. He even joined the judge’s Skid Row Running Club, an organization dedicated to overcoming alcohol and drug abuse. Price has already participated in a triathlon and was training to participate in his first 50-mile ultra marathon.
MCRP gave Price the skills he needed to take his education and career goals into his own hands. Wasting no time to enroll in school, juggling a full course load of four classes as an honors student, along with a growing career as a solar panel installer trainee. Yet he still finds time to devote himself to giving back to his community. He has taken on a second job as a drug and alcohol counselor, mentoring the kids of Silver Lake in Los Angeles.
For those considering going to the Board of Parole Hearings or joining an MCRP, Price offers the following advice.
“Oh, I could have went to board and I would have been home with my family right now. But I never would have gained the tools I received since I’ve been here,” he said. “It’s crucial.”
>> Learn more about MCRP on the website.
Story by Ray Burgess, staff services analyst
Video by Franklin Harrison and Matt Sichler, associate governmental program analysts
Division of Rehabilitative Programs, Creative Services
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