Welcome to the 8th edition of Instilling Change! Thank you to everyone who has followed along with us and we look forward to sharing more successes each month! -- The consequences of breaking the law are often difficult to overcome, especially once you lose your driver’s license. Through hard work and perseverance, Rigoberto (Rigo) Calderon has been able to defy the odds and carve his own path towards success for him and his family. When he returned home from the Missouri Department of Corrections after completing a 120-day treatment program, Rigo discovered he had lost his home, most of his belongings, and no longer had a job. In order to help overcome his barriers, his probation officer referred him to the Second Chance Program.
Through Second Chance, Rigo was able to receive the support he needed to reduce barriers in his life while on supervision. He was able to obtain assistance with his job search and secured employment. Once employed, he was given work clothes and gas cards to help get to and from work, along with coaching on financial responsibility. Although the material support was extremely helpful for his successes, Rigo praised Second Chance for the relationships built during case management and the support system he received while trying to rebuild his life. According to Rigo, “[Second Chance] made me feel confident and strong, like I could do anything if I applied myself. It’s a good feeling to have people like that.” Although Rigo has successfully graduated from the program, he remains in contact with Second Chance.
Rigo also gives credit to Community Services League and his various probation officers for the support they gave him while he was rebuilding what he had lost. Both organizations “opened my eyes to see what I was doing wrong” and “woke me up to be a better person and citizen,” Rigo stated. Earlier this year, Rigo successfully completed probation.
Rigo spends most of his time taking care of his mother and his grandson with autism. To Rigo, family is extremely important. “I make things possible because I want to see those kids doing something for their future.” If he isn’t spending time with his family, you can most likely find him at a neighbor’s house assisting them with various handyman tasks. In the future, Rigo would like to complete his GED, own his own home, and potentially start his own small handyman business. We were happy to assist Rigo along his journey to success and look forward to what else he will accomplish in the future! -- Second Chance is a program of the Kansas City Metropolitan Crime Commission. If you have any further questions, please contact us at 816-231-0450.