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On January 7, 2025, a brush fire fueled by high winds ignited the Eaton Canyon area in Pasadena, California, forcing evacuations and turning entire subdivisions into ash.

John grew up in South Sacramento, California, and saw things that a young boy just shouldn’t see. “It became normal to see drug dealing, drug use, violent crimes, people getting messed up, people getting shot,” said John. “It’s what I thought life was like.” A child of divorce, John lived with his mother, who he says wasn’t as involved as she should have been.

When Shayne returned home from incarceration, he faced the same overwhelming reality that so many justice-impacted individuals do—starting over with nothing but $100 and the clothes on his back. In previous attempts at reentry, the financial strain became unbearable, leading him back to old habits as a way to cope. But this time was different. This time, he had support.

This Women’s History Month, we celebrate the strength, resilience, and leadership of justice-impacted women at the Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO). These remarkable leaders have not only rebuilt their own lives but are now paving the way for others, advocating for fair chance hiring, and creating opportunities for justice-impacted individuals. Each of them was asked the same set of questions—reflecting on their challenges, inspirations, and proudest accomplishments. Their stories are a testament to the power of perseverance, community, and the deep belief that everyone deserves the chance to succeed.

Growing up in Del Paso Heights, Sacramento, Isaac faced many challenges. With two parents who struggled with addiction and were often incarcerated, he was in and out of foster care and soon started getting into trouble in his early teens for fighting.

The difference between a successful reentry after incarceration and a failed one often lies in the smallest of details: no money for the bus; can’t get work boots; lost birth certificate. These problems are big obstacles for returning citizens that often have no support system, and can be a catalyst for defeat.

In 2023, Clyde was released from Solidad State prison in California after serving 28 years of a 30 years-to-life sentence. He walked out of prison looking for the best way to get back on his feet: a job. But, after nearly three decades of living behind bars, Dudley was on his own and lacked the skills and knowledge most people on the outside take for granted.

One of the most difficult positions to play in baseball is third base. The hot corner requires great hand-eye coordination, quick thinking, and speed. Pascual had all three and was being scouted by colleges when he was in high school, something every boy dreams of.

Javier never imagined that welding would become his passion. But sometimes, the right opportunities come from the most unexpected places. After completing a drug court rehabilitation program, Javier’s probation officer introduced him to an opportunity that would change his life – a paid welding class.

William grew up in an underserved community in south central Los Angeles with limited opportunities. He was raised by his hardworking mother, who juggled multiple jobs to support him and his 10 siblings. Like many others raised in similar situations, when his mother passed away at just 42, William struggled to find his path. Without guidance or support, he turned to substances to cope, leading to choices that resulted in his incarceration.

Millions of Americans have entered a correctional facility only to leave months or years later with no money for food, clothes, or shelter. When Maria left Rikers Island seven years ago, she had nothing but the examples her grandma had given her growing up in gentrifying Brooklyn: be determined, put your family first, and survive anything.

Reentering society after incarceration comes with countless hurdles, from securing stable employment to affording basic necessities. For many, the first few months are the most critical—without financial support, the risk of recidivism increases dramatically. In Denver, George, a participant in the Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) program, experienced these challenges firsthand.