In 1984, John Dillon founded Chrysalis, Apple released the first commercially successful computer, and Myron was looking back on his first two years in prison. It would be another three decades before he would arrive at Chrysalis and start a massive game of catch-up with the world and technology.
From an early age, Myron was surrounded by the gang and drug culture that washed through his South Los Angeles neighborhood. He traversed various gang territories on his way home from school each day, and by 16 years old he would become an official member. This decision led to an environment filled with substance abuse, violence, and illegal activities.
While in prison, Myron took a hard look at the decisions he had made and considered the person he wanted to become. “I had made some really bad and devastating choices,” he shared, “I understood that I had to change my perspective. Once I changed my perspective, I could change my life.” He joined a substance abuse program, earned his GED, and received a few vocational training certificates including one focused on dry cleaning.
But it wasn’t until he was released at 54 years old that he would get the chance to start truly living. Coming to Chrysalis from CLARE, he told his Employment Specialist that he felt like he was seeing the world for the first time. “Everything was new to me,” he shared. Eager to build a stable life for himself, Myron was ready to learn what job searching looked like in the 21st century. Step one – understanding how to use a computer so he could set up an email address and begin his job search.
Myron got to work with a volunteer to build a resume and begin submitting online job applications. He also started working a transitional job with Chrysalis’ social enterprise as a street sweeper, which allowed him to earn a paycheck and add work experience to his resume. When an opportunity with the Fairmont Hotel presented itself, Myron got started on the application immediately.
After brushing up his interview skills with a volunteer at Chrysalis the day before, Myron went to meet his future employer. Three weeks after submitting the initial application, Myron was identified as the perfect candidate for an overnight laundry attendant position.
Chrysalis celebrated this, and many more, milestones with Myron. To this day, he generously shares his story with others, representing both himself and Chrysalis at community events, including being honored as the 2018 John Dillon Award Recipient at Chrysalis’ annual Butterfly Ball. From reconnecting with his family and girlfriend to finding a supportive community and haven through places such as Chrysalis and CLARE, Myron has truly built a new life for himself – and it all started with a job. But the best reward he could have ever imagined is being reunited with and surrounded by those he loves most.