Back to His Passions
Jesse’s story is a story of redemption – another chance to build a life he loves.
Jesse’s passion for music started when his mom, a first-generation immigrant from Mexico, would ask him to make her mix tapes of her favorite songs from back home. He remembers prepping food for the family with his mom in the kitchen, bopping along to those tapes, and learning family recipes along the way.
A Familiar Place
Now, you’ll be hard-pressed to find him without his notebook of songs in hand – hundreds of pages of lyrics – many of which came to him as he did time in prison.
After his release from prison, Jesse made his way to CASS shelter at Key Campus. It was a familiar place – he’d been there before. Determined that this time would be different, Jesse immediately engaged with Key Campus services.
He received case management from Community Bridges (CBI), completed a professional ServSafe certification training program with St. Mary’s Food Bank, and received job search assistance, uniform and equipment from St. Joseph the Worker.
No One’s Perfect
Jesse received a referral and placement from Keys to Change to the Bridge 95 transitional housing property. During his time at Bridge 95, Jesse saved up as much money as possible and took advantage of every service offered to him.
“The staff puts up with you,” Jesse laughed. “They know that no one’s perfect. On your own, it’s so easy to give up. With people around you, things feel better.”
Jesse now has two jobs working in fine dining and banquets. His favorite dish to prepare is beef wellington – so you know he’s not afraid of a challenge!
He continues to write new music, and is so proud to share his progress with his family, and the community.
Thank you, Jesse, for sharing your story with us – let us know when your SoundCloud drops!
