American Morning
'Magic happened' after she gave ex-cons a chance at new lives
By Kathleen Toner, CNN
Los Angeles, California (CNN) – At the bus terminal in downtown Los Angeles, they're easy to spot. Dressed in blue jeans, they carry boxes, bags or large envelopes with their name and a number on it. They are ex-offenders, just released from California's prison system. When they step off the bus with $200 in "gate money" in their pockets, many have hopes of making a fresh start.
But in this seedy area just blocks from Skid Row, the new arrivals are easy targets for pimps and drug dealers. For some, the temptation is too much. While not everyone succumbs to the streets so quickly, nearly 60 percent return to prison within three years, according to California's Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.
It's a cycle that Susan Burton is striving to break through her reentry program. Having served six prison terms for drug offenses in the 1980s and '90s, Burton knows from experience how hard it can be.
"Every time I was released, I swore I wasn't going back," said Burton, 57. "But I know now that without the resources and support, it's next to impossible. ... If you don't have a new door to walk through, the only thing is the old door." Read more
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All the best to you, Donald. Please don't give up. So many people are struggling right now, and I know that it's even harder if you've got a record. But you'll be OK. And the world needs superb painters... 🙂
your a superstar. i totally understand the situations that "all" fresh released ex cons often find themselves in. your dedication to the woman of los angeles is to be commended. it is so hard for people who are coming home. the resources are not there to handle the needs of each individual. often times its so easy to give up, noting that you are part of a system that is designed to perpetuate failure. i never succeeded in completing my parole. thus, it took me 16 years to complete an 11 year sentence. i wish i had someone like you to advocate my reintergration back to the community. in any event, im home 3 years now, out of the criminal element. however, despite being a superb painter. i find myself unemployed. keep up your good work. perseverance is the key. thank you for your inspiration to all of us who want to succeed.