R!SE UP: A New Beginning

SEE ME RISE- Davis\’s Journey

Growing up in a single parent home, Davis moved around a lot. His father was not involved in his life, in fact, the first time that he met his father was at the age of 18 in a hospital room as his father was passing away from cancer. Several factors as he grew up contributed to his low self-esteem and lack of self-confidence. “My pride, my self-esteem, and my confidence suffered because of this constant feeling of not measuring up. I was a follower, who wanted to fit in, even if it meant doing the wrong things.”

At a young age, Davis began drinking and doing small crimes. Eventually, these decisions led to a five year jail sentence. In 2013, Davis was released early after serving three years for good behavior.

“When I was released from jail, I had no money, no job, no car, and no where to live. I didn’t realize, all of the problems that I would face now having a record and how much harder putting a life together would be.”

Davis heard about Twin Cities R!SE from a friend and enrolled right away.

“Twin Cities R!SE allowed me to tell my story without being judged. They were there to motivate me and they helped me to know that I could be better, and most importantly, they didn’t give up on me.”

While at TCR, Davis took typing, credit building,and communication classes.

“The classes on how to interview well and and the ones that taught me to bring up my past history in a professional and positive manner were most impactful for me.”

He began working temp jobs while at TCR, but it was nerve wracking not knowing if  he would get a call back the next day, or not. At one point, Davis was working a temporary position that required a daily four hour commute via biking, light rail, and bus.

“It wasn’t easy, but I didn’t quit. My Career Coach at TCR, Tony Blakey, encouraged me, and by the end of the program, I earned a full-time position with benefits, and this September, I will be celebrating two years of employment at the same company. Twin Cities R!SE has renewed my self-confidence  and gave me the skills that I needed to turn my life around.

“At Twin Cities R!SE, I learned that no matter what you have been through, there is always a way to overcome. Look at where you are, learn from it, and do better.”

Davis is currently working towards buying a home and getting his CDL license to become a truck driver.

“Challenges come and go, but because of Twin Cities R!SE, I am able to think clearer, and make better decisions that are in my own positive self-interest.”  

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