Thursdays with NAMI: How do you learn independent living skills after years behind bars?

Thursday, March 9, 7:00pm

When James Smith was released from prison in 2016, he was lost. When he reached out for help from a re-entry program, nobody returned his call. It was his sister, his wife, and church members who coached him through the changes he wanted to make.

“I felt ashamed if I went someplace,” he said. “I felt like people would look at me and see a criminal, even if they didn’t know me. It’s a miracle really to come out of it.”

Today he helps other men rejoin the community after incarceration, working as a Community Inclusion Specialist for the Alliance of Disability Advocates NC. He talks with participants about getting a job and dealing with mental pressure.

“Guys don’t go to interviews because they don’t feel prepared,” he said. “They need encouragement, mock interviews… a step-by-step of how it’s going to go.”

How exactly did James make the transition, and what are they keys to helping others? Join us to hear his story. This event is free and open to the public. Find us on Facebook Live or register to participate on Zoom.