Jeff Clark has a request of potential employers.

“I would ask you, professional to professional, please look at the person, not at the offense,” Mr. Clark said.

When Mr. Clark was released from prison, he wanted most of all to be able to support his wife and children. He was granted many interviews, but when businesses learned he had a criminal record, they were reluctant to hire him.

It’s a frustrating situation for offenders, who must find work to meet the conditions of parole. The Department of Corrections knows that having a job is one of the most important factors to keep offenders from returning to prison.

“We have a lot of people who are non-violent offenders who have made mistakes and they’re going to come back to our communities,” said Susie Edwards, program manager of offender work force development.

At a luncheon this week, employers were urged to look at hiring former inmates.

“We want to open employers’ minds to the possibility of hiring offenders,” said Marcia Miller of Catholic Charities.

The organization sponsors the Turn Around program, which helps offenders transition to a new life.

Tari Hovey said the program helped her with basic needs, such as clothing and obtaining identification. As Ms. Hovey became discouraged looking for a job, Catholic Charities put her in touch with Dale Hallman, owner of Choices of St. Joseph, which provides personal care for people with disabilities.

Mr. Hallman said Ms. Hovey has excelled at her job and has been promoted to house manager.

“It feels really good to be a part of helping someone put their life back together,” Mr. Hallman said.

Employers learned about tax credits and free federal bonding to assist businesses that hire ex-offenders.

Chuck Rowell said one of the biggest challenges in hiring former prisoners to work at his construction company is that they do not have good attendance.

“I tend to be harder on felons because I know what’s expected of them,” he said.

Mr. Rowell, who was released from prison two years ago, said a strong support system is essential to get the tools to build a new life. He hires ex-offenders at his business and said it’s been a positive experience.

Catholic Charities works to place workers in situations that are a good fit for both the worker and the business, Ms. Miller said.

“A lot of people are surprised felons have great assets. We can be an asset to a company,” Ms. Hovey said.

For more information about the Turn Around program, contact Jamie Wiggington at 232-2885, ext. 42.

Business editor Susan Mires can be reached at susanm@ngpco.com.