#mplspeople

It was a night of firsts. The first graduating class of a first-time program. The first visit to Urban Ventures for current Minneapolis mayor, Jacob Frey. And a room full of first-time gun offenders. 

For the past year, these participants have been part of an innovative partnership between Urban Ventures and the District Attorney’s office. The goal of the program is to give first-time offenders a second chance. Rather than jail time for their nonviolent firearms convictions, they can attend a weekly program at Urban Ventures. Successful completion of the program, and no other infractions during probation, means their record will be expunged. 

The graduation ceremony marked not only hope for their future, but a chance to redeem some of their past. Participants shared their stories and remarked how they felt both grateful and undeserving of the opportunity they’d been given. Facilitators and city officials sat shoulder to shoulder with the young men being celebrated. There was an unmistakable sense of camaraderie shared between groups who are often on opposing sides of society. 

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey added his personal encouragement to what he sees as an example of how rehabilitation should work. “We’re expecting that you’re not just going to be the artists and the creative class and the entrepreneurs and the CEOs of tomorrow,” Frey said, “we’re expecting you to be the artists and the creative class and the CEOs and the entrepreneurs of right now.”

It was a welcome word of hope and encouragement. The members of the group understand the great burden that is being lifted, and what it means to have this program as an alternative to jail time. 

“I have a career I love that I’ve worked at for 15 years,” one of the participants shared with the group. “If it wasn’t for the people here, I would have thrown it all away and ruined my life. Instead, I’m getting another chance.”

This pilot program, the first of its kind in the state of Minnesota, is a collaboration between Hennepin County and Urban Ventures. By offering a new beginning, Minneapolis officials are hoping they can offer new hope as well. Mayor Frey drove that point home as he finished his remarks. He congratulated the participants on choosing the better path and encouraged them to continue their journey. 

“Look at the people around you right now. They are expecting great things, and there is no doubt in my mind that you will live up to every single ounce of potential that you have right here. You got it. And, I’m proud to say, we’ve got you.”