When you meet Shantone, you might learn that he is 36 years old, enjoys working outdoors and is in the process of becoming, “who I’m supposed to be in life.” What you might not realize is that his journey to get to where he is today was not an easy one.
Shantone had a desire to contribute to society and turn his life around following a stint in prison. After his release in November, he sought out self-help information and employment opportunities at Trident United Way’s Berkeley Prosperity Center.
At the beginning of his job search, he struggled to find work due to his criminal history. Shantone met with a counselor at the Prosperity Center and expressed his interest in working outdoors.
The counselor was able to point him in the right direction and Shantone secured a job as a landscaper in Mount Pleasant just a few days after their meeting. “I heard his joy in his voice when he called to say he was hired,” said his counselor, Claretha Wade. Alston Wilkes Society helped him purchase work boots and pants, and Goodwill bought him a rain suit and work gloves. Shantone now has a desire to pay it forward and make a difference in the lives of others by being a mentor to local youth.