Helping former inmates return to the workforce

The justice system is vital to a free society. There are laws, and those who break laws, depending on the infraction, may find themselves in prison. But for most inmates, there's life beyond the bars.

A recent story by Katherine Webster in this newspaper highlighted some eye-opening numbers. In Missouri, about 20,000 inmates per year are released from prison and become members of their communities, according to the Missouri Department of Corrections. When you consider the number on probation or parole in the Show Me State, about 24,600, it further highlights the issue.

For these individuals, it's important to find work and not to return to a life of crime. Part of doing this means having access to key documentation and a high school equivalency test.

The Community Caring Council helps former inmates with things such as birth certificates, personal identification and HiSET, the high school equivalency test. But the organization previously lost a grant that funded the services.

In an effort to help fund the services, the event Bikers for Re-Entry was started. Through a scavenger hunt and sales of a painting and reprints, about $3,000 was raised. This is the amount lost from the grant, according to an organizer.

The next Bikers for Re-Entry ride is Oct. 3. You can learn more on the website bikers4reentry.webs.com.

We understand the challenge business leaders face in hiring an individual with a criminal record. It's not something to take lightly. Each situation, and individual, is different. But we're pleased to see an organization like the Community Caring Council help these individuals in their pursuit of gainful employment. Thanks also to the Bikers for Re-Entry fundraiser and those who support similar programs that help those in need.