COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KOAA) — One local organization is helping people with convictions to rebuild their lives. The Center for Employment Opportunities, located nationwide, offers programs that can help prepare individuals for a second chance at finding jobs.

Inside a room filled with positive, encouraging quotes and resources for new job opportunities, News5 met Corey Cheeks.

“We were mocking… mocking like how interviews will go,” said Cheeks.

Cheeks says he spent seven years in prison

“I was in prison in 2017. I didn’t really get out until 2024,” he said.

The hardest part, however, wasn’t the prison time. Cheeks says it was missing out on being there for his kids.

“I love my kids,” he said. “I want to do everything I can for them.”

Determined to turn his life around, Cheeks beg

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