DEI:Formerly Incarcerated Individuals-Myths & Opps

Please join us Monday, May 17, from 6 to 7:15 p.m.
for "Formerly Incarcerated Individuals - Myths and Opportunities" 

As a global network that strives to build a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change, Rotary values diversity and celebrates the contributions of people of all backgrounds, regardless of their age, ethnicity, race, color, abilities, religion, socioeconomic status, culture, sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity. As Rotarians, the Four-Way Test of the things we think, say or do is our moral code for personal and business relationships. And, we know the test can be applied to almost any aspect of life.

Your District 6270 Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Task force is pleased to present "Formerly Incarcerated Individuals - Myths and Opportunities". This session will address the stigma and obstacles faced by justice involved individuals, and the service gaps in our communities. Natraj will highlight the purpose of the Formerly Incarcerated Individuals Rehabilitation Service (FIIRS) -- a partnership between agencies, businesses, service providers, communities and The Rotary network - and the opportunities in supporting this work. We will hear from a panel that will consist of former justice involved individuals, employers who have hired justice involved people, and organizations working to create pathways to success. Bring your questions for an interactive session!

Register in advance for this meeting: 
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYqdO-spjorE9OMEQNQUpix6TYiVJOfR0PS   

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. 

About our presenter:

Natraj Shanker is an Industrial and Systems Engineer and has experience working for Fortune 500 companies from the Shop-Floor to the Top-Floor and from Customers to Suppliers.  He is a member of the Milwaukee Downtown Rotary Club. He is a board member of the Alzheimer’s and Dementia Rotary Action Group (ADRAG) and is the district lead on the Rotary Community Corp focused on Formerly Incarcerated Individuals Rehabilitation Services.  He is working on building a startup focused on 3-D Manufacturing.  He lives in Shorewood and is active in the community. 

Meet our panelists:

Bill Harrigan, Harrigan Solutions, LLC. Our greater purpose is to encourage and enable companies to successfully recruit, select, train & employ individuals with checkered pasts. We believe the only solution to the manufacturing labor gap crisis is a neighborhood centered collaboration in which businesses and community groups work together. Our Harrigan Leadership Academy teaches our scalable model to do just that, and the results have been impressive. I am eager to speak to groups about the elements, successes, and challenges involved in setting up a deliberately developmental program to engage the "almost employable".

Jamie De Jesus, released from incarceration 4 years ago and recently discharged from supervision after 23 yrs. Experienced Manufacturing Specialist with a demonstrated history of working in the individual and family services industry. Skilled in Manufacturing, Lean Manufacturing, Motivational Speaking, Teaching, and Hand-drawing. Strong education professional with a CNC Machine Operator Certification focused on Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) Machinist Technology/CNC Machinist from Gateway Technical College.  I have found out that when you are doing right, good things will come to you.

Sylvester Jackson, Milwaukee Community Organizer at EXPO (Ex-Incarcerated People Organizing).  I’m a true prodigal son. Saved by the Mighty hand of God through his grace and mercy. If God can save me from all the dark evil things of my past, anyone can be saved, if they are willing to make that change.  I look back and know I have been given a second chance to be an enforcer of righteousness and fight for positive changes in my community.

Erik Carranza is an entrepreneur fueled by his passion to help people become the best version of themselves. He has coached hundreds of people to live better lives.   Erik has been successful in re-entering the system after being convicted and knows the hardships that come from that experience. Erik is now working in the real estate industry helping people with their real estate needs.  Eric is a Rotarian and member of the Amigos Club.