Community leaders at First Friday Coffee talk benefits of hiring ex-offenders

Schnucks manager Dennis Marchi understands the contribution ex-offenders can make to a business.

Since the grocery store in Cape Girardeau began hiring ex-offenders in the 1980s Marchi has seen the positive effect the Missouri Reentry program has on the employees.

"There are always some washouts but most of our ex-offenders have been viable citizens," Marchi told business leaders at the Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce First Friday Coffee at the Show Me Center. "In most cases they go on to earn degrees, have families, obtain good jobs and become taxpayers.

"Everyone makes mistakes," Marchi said. "They have great work ethic and have proven they can fit in. Most employees in the store wouldn't know who they are."

For their efforts, Schnucks was presented the 2009 Missouri Reentry Program Business Partner of the Year at the monthly event, which was sponsored by the Bank of Missouri and the UPS Store.

The Missouri Reentry Program provides assistance for ex-offenders who are trying to break down barriers in re-entering society. Between 25 and 30 community partners help administer programs to the ex-offenders.

Randy Huffman, VISTA Reentry specialist, said the program is open to any offender who is on probation or that has come out of prison on parole and needs assistance with reentering society. About 300 ex-offenders have participated in the program since it began in June 2006.

"It's a risk worth taking," Huffman said. "Not only do employers get a financial benefit but they get an employee who is required to stay and work with that company. Just like any other employee longevity with a job is important."

Employers who participate in the program enjoy such benefits as a $2,400 Work Opportunity Tax Credit for each ex-offender they hire, paid-for drug testing, resources of a probation officer and a federal bonding program that is a business insurance policy that protects the employer from monetary or property loss because of the employee's dishonesty.

Huffman said most employees hired work in the restaurant, grocery or fast food industry.

"With the economy we're looking at companies that tend to not be affected," Huffman said. "They've been a tremendous help for our clients."

During his presentation Cape Girardeau Mayor Jay Knudtson urged the business leaders to become an active part in the process.

"I understand people deserve a second chance," Knudtson said. "We need to find a way to involve them. This program is how it can happen."

For more information on the reentry program contact the Community Caring Council at 651-3747, extension 117, or visit communitycaringcouncil.org.

bblackwell@semissourian.com

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