ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo. — People who have been released from jail and prison are getting the tools they need to become entrepreneurs. It's thanks to a new program from the St. Louis County Library.
When you do the crime, you do the time. But\, what happens after the fact?
Megan Phifer-Davis with the St. Louis County Library said, "60% to 64% of people that are released do not find work after they are released, and that's not unemployment, that’s joblessness, which means they're actively looking for work and having a hard time finding a job."
It's why she takes her role seriously.
"I can help them with that resume and their cover letter and interview prep," she said, "but I can't change a company's policies of whether or not they'll take someone with a background check, but I can help them start a business."
That’s where the Small Business Launch Pad comes in. The library started it back in August to give 11 previous offenders an opportunity to learn what it takes to own businesses.
"(We discuss creating) a business plan, talking about funding, talking about barriers and fears we might have and the legal aspects,” Phifer-Davis said.
Matthew Palmer, a 28-year-old former offender, is front and center.
"It was my first time getting in trouble,” said.
Out of custody on a felony brandishing charge, he's ready to look forward with an auto detail and service business. He calls it Squeak Key Clean STL.
"I can pull up to somebody's job, their home or anything like that and perform a full service in their driveway, whether it be an oil change, interior detail or exterior car wash,” he said with excitement.
For him, it's about bouncing back and setting an example for his 3-year-old daughter.
"Having a program like this and the support specifically will keep people from (recidivism),” Phifer-Davis said.
Each participant received a free laptop. Organizers are planning a competition so participants can pitch their business plans.
The St. Louis County Library Foundation is accepting donations that could potentially reward the best pitch. If you want to donate, just mention the Small Business Launch Pad.
Applications for the next wave of participants will open in May.
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