Gail House and her late husband, Jerry, own House Foundry--making bronze statues. Here is their experience of hiring convicted felons. What a testimony of grace!

To:    Pastoral Staff

    LakeRidge United Methodist Church

 

From:    Gail House

 

Re:    Hiring Felons

 

 

We have had good experiences in hiring felons. Jerry was always selective in his hiring practices. Two examples follow:

 

One young man came to us over twenty-five years ago. Jerry observed his work habits and was pleased with his commitment. After two weeks on the job, he came to us and admitted that he had lied on the employment application – he had just finished a five-year prison sentence. This young man trained with us to become a fine patineur. After fifteen years with House Bronze, he set up his own studio in Loveland, Colorado, the sculpture capital west of the Mississippi, and has developed a national reputation in his field. The weekend before Jerry passed away, this young man drove from Loveland to Lubbock on a Friday night and visited a number of hours on Saturday – his mission was to thank Jerry and me for giving him another chance and for the training in our shop that led to a new profession for him.

 

Another young man came to us last year. His work ethic is worthy of praise. Recently, he was falsely accused by step-children in a family problem and was jailed for over a month. When it came time for his court hearing, we took most of our staff  (ten people plus Jerry and me) to sit on the front row as his case was argued. Jerry testified on his behalf and pointed out his work partners who believed him to be innocent. The judge reduced his bond significantly. This young man and his wife are active in their church. They have expressed sincere appreciation for our support and belief in this young man.

 

This is not an endorsement for blindly hiring felons. One must give due consideration and selectivity in all hiring practices. But, we are gratified that the above examples cited were given a second chance to become productive individuals and are earning their way in society.