TOLEDO, Ohio (WTVG) – In a room full of so many graduates, everyone has a story. This includes Matthew Klocek-Branham.

“I served 17 years in prison. I went out and was introduced to this place so I could go to college,” Klocek-Branham said.

The 39-year-old was convicted of several charges, including a 2007 armed robbery in Monroe County. Earlier this year, he was released and his parole officer recommended he pursue higher education.

This led him to Cherry Street Mission Ministries.

“She asked me if I wanted to go to college. I said I’d love to. I’m always looking to better myself and the community and whatever I can,” Klocek-Branham said.

“You have to be below 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines because all of our students pay nothing,” said Carrie Arnold, vice president of workforce development at Cherry Street. “Typically, within 30 days, 80% of our students find a job.”

Since 2016, Arnold says Cherry Street has partnered with community colleges to get candidates into jobs quickly. The program typically lasts 6 to 12 weeks and specializes in in-demand jobs.

“We have 40 students graduating tonight. We have 2 welding classes, a building trades class, a food truck operations class, and an introductory AI and project management class,” Arnold said.

As for Klocek-Branham, he was asked to speak to his graduating class before traveling to receive his welding certificate. He already has a job lined up, earning at least $35 an hour.

If you would like to know more, CLICK HERE: https://cherrystreetmission.org/workforce-development/

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