Why ACI? It’s hard to believe, it has been seven years since I was locked up. Boy, a lot has changed, including my whole way of thinking and the way I feel about myself. I was a normal person with a nagging addiction. I raised two families and went to work at my own small construction company. I came to Arizona for a working vacation to install roofs, but my addiction and very bad choices landed me in prison for seven years flat.

I was at my bottom, defeated, with total guilt, shame, despair, and hopelessness. I was fifty one years old and first time in prison- I was ready to give up on life. My friends and family were disgusted with me. I decided then and there that I will do everything in my power to make these seven years count. I started attending a twelve-step program (and I still do). I found a higher power that I can have a relationship with, which kept me honest, not only with others also myself. That allowed me to do the next right thing and that kept me ticket free.

I was able to get the typical yard jobs. You know, rake rocks…really? Pick up cigarette butts…ok that was fun!  Kitchen, maintenance, warehouse, store; all jobs that allowed me to get hygiene and a few treats. They just didn’t feel like a real job. My goal was to get into an ACI position. When finally I did, it was for one week, picking tomatos. Then they moved me here to Kingman, which at the time had only one ACI job with a nine man crew. I didn’t give up; after working my way back through the yard jobs, I was afforded the opportunity to work at Jim Glo. They first taught me to wire a complete 12 volt system. Then I learned how to turn a pile of materials into a beautiful trailer, used to haul very expensive autos. Now I get to train others, as cool as that is. The real magic is they gave me responsibility at my job and my life. It feels like a real job. I have pride in my work and what I am accomplishing.

I give and get respect from my co-workers. My self-worth is back. I look forward to going to work. I also enjoy having the opportunity to learn machines I’ve never even seen before, but my favorite thing is to solve problems and gain a whole new skill set. The kicker is I get paid well; my locker is full (lots of Poptarts!) I’m able to save enough of my spendable to send money home to my kids and sister. Best of all, they put money on a retention fund. My family and friends are proud of me now. I did the next right thing and right things happened.

I’m getting out soon. I have saved enough to get a fresh start. What a blessing! I have a normal routine of getting up, going to work and paying my bills. I have the confidence to achieve my goals and pride in myself and my skill set.

Thank you ACI, you do make a difference in our lives.