Robert’s Second Chance
For Second Chance Month, we spoke with Robert Cooper, a proud graduate of Ready, Willing & Able and Doe Fund employee. Robert’s story is a testament to the transformative power of second chances and the impact of programs like Ready, Willing & Able. His story shows that with determination and support, a brighter future is possible.
Robert’s journey has been one of resilience and transformation, marked by overcoming challenges and embracing new opportunities. Coming from a background of substance abuse and incarceration, he was eager to change his life.
His life took a positive turn when he sought help at Elev8 Centers, where he completed a detox and rehabilitation program. His next step was joining The Doe Fund’s Ready, Willing & Able program, where he found the support and structure he needed to rebuild his life.
“I come from a background of substance abuse. From a young age and throughout my life, I was caught in that vicious cycle. Those challenges led me to the detox and rehabilitation program, and when I finished, I went straight to The Doe Fund where I joined. I received transitional housing, paid work experience, and a support system that helped me change my life,” Robert shared.
Starting as one of the Men in Blue, Robert worked on the Columbus Avenue street cleaning crew for two months before transitioning to a driver role, embracing new responsibilities and opportunities. Today, as a Community Improvement Project Supervisor, he oversees the distribution of materials to trainees who clean the city daily, ensuring they have the tools needed for their work.
“The Doe Fund has been a great experience for me. It helped me change a lot of things in my life through the staff and educational opportunities. The staff from William Glenn to the case managers have been exceptionally helpful and caring with myself and the other individuals they serve.” He continued, “I’m a proud graduate of Ready, Willing & Able. The Doe Fund is such a great place.”
In addition to his role at The Doe Fund, Robert serves as a part-time Patient Care Coordinator at Elev8 Centers, allowing him to continue supporting others facing similar challenges. He is also pursuing his Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) training at Exponents’ Center for Personal and Professional Development, aiming to become a counselor to help others on their path to recovery.
“In the near future, my dream is to become a counselor and give back to others. I want to support men and women who have experienced struggles similar to mine in the past. Helping them navigate through their challenges and find a path to recovery would be incredibly fulfilling for me,” Robert told us.
Robert is also inspired by the Clean Slate Act, which seals criminal records and provide opportunities for those impacted by the criminal justice system. He sees it as a chance for individuals like himself to have a second chance at life.
“The impact of my charge has been significant in various aspects of my life. It has been challenging to obtain certain jobs and has limited some of the opportunities that I could have pursued. I often think about the different paths my life could have taken if not for this charge.”
He continued, “I was blown away and impressed that it will seal criminal records, provide opportunities, and a second chance to those impacted by the criminal justice system. I’ve experienced these barriers to opportunities.”
Robert’s dedication extends beyond his professional life to his family, where maintaining a positive relationship with his four children is a priority. He recognizes the impact of his past challenges on them and strives to provide stability and guidance, ensuring they make better choices for their future.
Reflecting on his journey, Robert shares advice for Ready, Willing & Able trainees: “Find your recovery base, stay connected with a support network, and avoid the places that led to past struggles.” These principles have guided him and continue to be essential in his recovery and growth.
