Denver-based nonprofit, Emerge Career, is helping formerly incarcerated individuals get back on their feet by becoming truck drivers despite their criminal backgrounds. The organization provides vocational training and wraparound services to support those directly impacted by incarceration. Since 2022, Emerge Career has assisted over 100 people in obtaining their commercial driver’s licenses (CDL) for free, working closely with local government agencies to train former inmates.
One success story from Emerge Career is Jamie Dick, a former stockbroker who found himself in jail for 18 months. Upon his release, Dick heard about the program and decided to pursue a career as a truck driver. Despite his setbacks, Dick is now on the road, driving trucks and earning a good living.
Emerge Career co-founder, Zo Orchingwa, believes that everyone deserves a second chance and that it would be unfair to penalize individuals for past mistakes and challenges. The organization is dedicated to providing opportunities to those who have been involved in the criminal justice system and hopes to expand its program to more states in the future.
Emerge Career’s work highlights the importance of second chances and the impact that access to education and training can have on individuals seeking to rebuild their lives after incarceration. By giving formerly incarcerated individuals the tools they need to succeed in the workforce, Emerge Career is making a positive impact and helping to break the cycle of recidivism.
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