McGreevey's nonprofit helps ex-cons start over

NEW JERSEY (FOX 5 NEWS) - Former New Jersey Gov. Jim McGreevey started a nonprofit that helps former prisoners get jobs so they don't return to a life of crime. It is helping men and women live successful and productive lives.

Ricky Smith, 26, does just about every job at Eastern Millwork, a manufacturing company in Jersey City, New Jersey. He is grateful to be employed. Ricky had trouble finding a work because nobody wanted to hire an ex-convict. He spent five years doing time for armed robbery.

Easter Millwork president Andrew Campbell took on chance on Ricky and other former felons. His one of a number of companies that work with New Jersey Reentry, the nonprofit corporation run by McGreevey.

McGreevey himself cajoles and convinces reluctant business owners to give these men another chance.

Integrity House also comes under the umbrella of New Jersey Reentry. Tanya lives for now at Integrity House. She is a recovering drug addict who served nine months for arson.

McGreevey and other advocates of the program believe education, housing, and employment are keys to keeping these men and women from returning to a life of crime.

The U.S. Department of Justice has recognized this program as being on the forefront of the reentry field.