In Virginia, around 131,000 people are involved with the justice system. After their experiences with the justice system (about 12,000 each year), it can be hard for them to find jobs and support their families. FastForward can help these incarcerated or formerly incarcerated individuals get back to work. FastForward offers training programs to help them learn new skills and get support with money. FastForward also helps them make connections and find resources to be successful at work.

Andrea's Story

Andrea's life took a remarkable turn after she discovered the transformative power of FastForward. Her story is an inspiring example of how determination and support can pave the way to a brighter future. After spending over eight years in a federal prison, Andrea knew she needed to make a change in her life. Little did she know that FastForward would be the catalyst for her remarkable transformation.

"When I got out of prison, I knew I wanted to do something legally that would give me the kind of money I needed," Andrea shared. Her search led her to the FastForward program. Initially, she doubted whether she could participate, assuming it would involve complex paperwork and numerous obstacles. However, she was pleasantly surprised to discover how simple and accessible the process was.

With just five minutes of her time answering a few questions, Andrea enrolled in the Commercial Driver's License - Class A program at Blue Ridge Community College. The best part was that she didn't have to pay a single penny out of her own pocket, thanks to the financial support she received.

Her career began as a full-time employee with Western Express. Andrea radiates happiness when she talks about her new job. "I love my new job," she exclaimed. "I get to travel a lot, I have a flexible schedule, and I make good money. This is who I was meant to be and what I was meant to do." Today, Andrea and her husband own and operate a trucking enterprise with five rigs in their fleet.

Andrea's journey demonstrates the life-changing impact that FastForward can have on justice-impacted individuals like her. It showcases the possibilities that open up when given the opportunity to pursue an education and a rewarding career. Her success serves as an inspiration for others facing similar challenges, showing them that with determination and the right support, they too can transform their lives.

Read more here: Student Success: A Former Inmate Maps Out Her Future | Fast Forward (fastforwardva.org)

Get started with FastForward and get a Career Coach here: Contact Us | VA | FastForward (fastforwardva.org)

FastForward Career Coaches are there to help these people who were in jail before. They know which jobs are good for them and which ones are not. They want to make sure they can find work that aligns with their background.

FastForward programs are located in Virginia’s community colleges. People who enroll in FastForward programs can receive extra help that they might not get otherwise - they want to make sure people finish their training and find jobs. If you were involved with the justice system before and want to get a job, you should check out FastForward training. You can fill out a form to talk to someone who can help you find the best options for you.

MORE INFORMATION

Here is a page for more info: Re-Entry Programs: How FastForward Can Help Previously Incarcerated Students | Fast Forward (fastforwardva.org)

REACH OUT

If you want to start, you can get in contact with a Career Coach, use this link here: Contact Us | VA | FastForward (fastforwardva.org)