Robert

Robert was wrongfully convicted at 16 for a crime he did not commit and was incarcerated for nearly 29 years. In 2024, Robert was released from wrongful imprisonment with the assistance of One on One’s partner organization, The Exoneration Project, which provides free legal services to fight for the wrongfully convicted and free the innocent.

Robert was paired with his own personal employment coach, Brendan, who helped him navigate through applying for jobs online. Due to the longevity of his wrongful imprisonment, Robert had never applied for a job online. In fact, he had never held a job in his life, as he was wrongfully convicted at such a young age. 

Initially, Robert was not selective about the type of job he wanted. He knew that he needed to generate some type of income and was willing to do many different types of work. For his first interview, his coach hosted a mock interview for him, where Robert practiced answering typical interview questions. “I was ready and felt prepared and confident in my ability to answer the questions,” said Robert. 

After nailing his interview, Robert was hired as a full-time warehouse associate at Essendant, an office supplies distribution center. Robert enjoys being paid weekly, practicing budgeting his new income, and learning to drive a forklift. This job is also helping him learn how to keep to a regular schedule, getting to work on time, and navigating aspects of working, such as taking time off and clocking in and out. 

But Robert refused to stop there.  He kept meeting with Brendan, and within six months was hired to work for United Airlines at O’Hare International Airport. 

Due to his unlawful incarceration, Robert is passionate about becoming a paralegal. He plans on enrolling in courses at a local community college for the upcoming semester.

“My coach helped me with a wide range of things—employment, housing, getting into school,” he shared. “I felt like I was really prepared when I began searching for jobs. My coach helped me create a budget plan. I now know how much I have to spend that month on rent, clothes, and food.” 

To those who are still looking for employment, Robert says, “take full advantage of your coach and learn as much as you can. Listen, pay attention, be on time, and just have a hopeful mind about the situation. Ask as many questions as you can.” 

Robert will continue to work with his employment coach in pursuit of his short-term and long-term goals, working to reach the places he wants to be. 

“Brendan was so special because he was genuine and sincerely wanted to help and see me succeed,” said Robert. “What I liked the most about him was his willingness to always help and provide me with valuable information or whatever I needed to get past any hurdle. I would encourage anyone who has the opportunity to work with One on One to take full advantage of it. It’s well worth it. Trust me, I know!”