A conference focused on helping citizens released from prison rejoin the community ended Friday in Columbus.
The National Returning Citizens Conference held a two-day event recognizing those who are making a difference for people who were formerly incarcerated.
Fifty-year-old Columbus native Dana Brock turned his life around after his third time behind bars for a violent offense. He is now eight years sober.
Five years ago, the Brookhaven High School graduate created the Lives Worth Saving Foundation to give those coming out of prison the interpersonal and professional tools they need for success.
"I've just been able to go back into the prisons, speak into the prisons to help pour life and hope and inspiration into individuals," Brock said.
About 18,000 people are released annually from Ohio prisons.
"One of the things that we have to be careful as a society in doing is saying that when we're here for people, and we're really offering real second chances, is we have to remove those stigmas and really create a pathway for success for the people that we say that we care about," Brock said.
Brock's foundation includes two other employees. He said he is seeking a city or state contract for his foundation since a federal freeze on grants aimed at community service is in effect.
"I've been able to partner with city officials, law enforcement, other community and nonprofit organizations and just people in the community as a whole that are interested in this population, in helping restore men and women returning home from incarceration,” Brock said.
Brock said he hopes to reach others like him who had rough childhoods and dealt with issues like domestic violence, underage drinking, illegal drug use and gang activity.
