First Day on the Job. Ronald’s Story.

Jan 03, 2020

How did you prepare for your first full-time job? The hallmark of CEO’s program model is the social enterprise that offers hands-on work experience, and free training classes, to formerly incarcerated individuals, eagerly looking for work.

As participants prepare for full-time employment, they are able to refine their skills and secure coveted credentials, all while earning immediate income through CEO’s transitional employment.

Meet Ronald Fairiror. Ronald enrolled in CEO’s Philadelphia program in September 2018, after being incarcerated for more than 20 years. Thanks to CEO, and the unwavering support of his mother, Ronald has made strides towards rebuilding his life. Soon after completing CEO’s orientation, Ronald began working on a CEO transitional work crew, earning a daily wage while gaining valuable work experience. CEO Site Supervisors provide all participants with performance feedback after each shift using our custom Passport to Success Application. Ronald’s supervisor praised him as a “team player” with a “good attitude”, and noted that Ronald was known for doing “great work”.

With support from CEO, Ronald obtained his first job placement at Aerotek Bala Cynwood and achieved his 365-day job retention milestone. He has successfully completed a 6-week carpentry training program offered through Furnishing the Future, and has earned OSHA and forklift-operating credentials, as well. As he looks to the future, Ronald plans to start a food delivery service in his neighborhood.

“Put in the effort & the effort will repay you."

- Ronald Fairiror, CEO Philadelphia Participant

Ronald’s story highlights the importance of gaining experience while pursuing greater employment goals.

In the upcoming year, CEO will serve 8,000 individuals across the country, just like Ronald. Please consider making a gift to help support our mission in reducing recidivism through employment opportunities.

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CEO’s I Am You series feature stories about participants that showcase their efforts to prepare for employment and career advancement. We hope these stories will inspire you to support CEO’s mission to connect formerly incarcerated individuals across the country to meaningful employment opportunities.

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Read other stories:

Building for the Future. Robert’s Story of Advancement.

Strengthening Skills, Starting a Career. Saed’s Story.

Job Coaching and Placement. Crystal's Story.