New E2E program connecting inmates with post-release employment
With just 70 days left of his prison sentence, Fausto Basso is anything but scared to take on a new career post-release after participating in the new Entry to Education program at California State Prison, Solano.
A program that allows California inmates who are nearing the end of their sentence to search for, apply for and secure jobs before leaving prison is expanding to other facilities.
The "Entry to Employment" program started at Solano State Prison, and it's already making an impact on some prisoners' lives.
"To have something like this is a blessing," said inmate Fausto Basso. "I am getting job offers, and this reduces my anxiety."
Basso was convicted of involuntary manslaughter and has been in prison since 2006.
"I am not the same man that came to prison in 2006," he said. "I know it sounds cliche; prison is the best thing to ever have happened to me. It got my attention, it got myself on the right track and to add to society instead of taking away."
Basso now wants to put good into the world.
"I want to be part of the solution. I was part of the problem," he said.
Basso learned a number of skills while incarcerated, working in a lens lab and as an optician. He's now looking for jobs in that field, as well as clerical and customer service specialist positions.
"There are a lot of certifications that one can avail themselves to here in prison, and I've made the most of my opportunities, and hopefully, it will translate out to getting a job on the streets," he said.
With a few clicks on the keyboard, Basso showed how easy it was to get his resume out to employers. He has 70 days left in prison and now he's able to line up his life on the outside.
The Entry to Employment program is expanding to California State Prison, San Quentin Rehabilitation Center, Valley State Prison, Central California Women's Facility and Avenal State Prison.
The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation expects 600 to 800 individuals will go through the program each year.
Originally published by NBC affiliate KCRA 3; June 14, 2024
