When the chips are down, it’s helpful to have a neighbor that can lend a hand or provide sage advice.
That’s what diligent students in the Regional Operational Program (ROP) experience when Lejon Fahim Reese, one of three founders of the Richmond nonprofit 1Hundred Years Enterprise, stops by to speak to their class at Chevron Richmond.
The ROP is a long-running program that prepares dozens of community members for entry level jobs at industrial facilities, including Chevron Richmond. While the program is free for students, the intense 18-week course can be taxing, especially on students who are also working to turn their lives around, according to ROP instructor Jay Lloyd.
For added inspiration, Lloyd invites Reese, a Richmond native, to help uplift students who may need additional motivation. In his most recent visit, Reese’s impact was apparent. Students kept him afterward for roughly two hours asking questions.
“A few students also asked to link up with him regarding mentorship and possible jobs within his organization,” Lloyd said. “They truly enjoyed his visit.”
Reese comes with a powerful story. He and his two fellow co-founders of 1Hundred Years Enterprise served a combined 100 years in prison and are now helping others lead constructive lives after incarceration.
Lloyd said the hurdles Reese faced as a young man navigating the streets of Richmond connected with some of his students who may currently be in the process of rebounding from adversity.
Reese spoke about mending and developing a relationship with his daughter and grandkids since coming home from prison, as well as overcoming the emotional toll it took on him and his daughter while he was away. With determination and support from his neighbors, Reese would become the leader of an impactful nonprofit and podcast, and also his community.
“I invited Lejon because many of the people that come through ROP struggle with belief in themselves,” Lloyd said. “Many of them don’t see themselves as successful, whether it’s because they come from Richmond or humble beginnings in general. Lejon has an amazing way with words, and he is motivational and candid. If they can see a person with his history thrive and succeed, then there is plenty of room for them to do the same.”
Lloyd said he plans to invite Reese to come speak at ROP “whenever he can.”
Reese says he’s grateful Lloyd reached out, adding, “I love giving back.”
“Once upon a time, I sat in those seats,” Reese said. “So I understand what one goes through when they’re trying to get ahead.”
To learn more about 1Hundred Years Enterprise, read our profile on how the nonprofit formed about five years ago, and also about the big impact the re-entry nonprofit has had in a short time in the community.
To learn more about the ROP program, check out our recent report on Lloyd’s impressive job placement streak as the program’s leader. Funded and taught by Chevron Richmond and organized by the Contra Costa County Office of Education, ROP has launched hundreds of successful careers across a number of industries, including at Chevron. Visit the County Office of Education website to learn more about registration.
