In January, Michael Helfrich was sworn in as the newest member of the York (PA) city council. Calling himself a “fiscally conservative social liberal,” Helfrich built a reputation as an advocate for environmental advocate for clean waterways in the eastern Pennsylvania community.
For some in York, however, Helfrich had a very different reputation. To these indviduals, he was “Michael Helfrich, Convicted Felon.”
Helfrich was convicted on drug charges in 1991, and spent 45 days behind bars as a result. Now, over two decades later, his past continues to follow him. A legal battle has ensued over Helfrich’s right to serve as a council member, although a judge has allowed him to continue to serve on council as the matter is being adjudicated. One constituent has even vowed not to pay taxes if Helfrich remains on council.
Mark Dixon understands Helfrich’s plight. An ex-felon himself, Dixon has also struggled to earn the acceptance of others in the community. He now runs the Fathers Workshop, a program assisting ex-prisoners in returning to society. On the occasion of Helfrich’s swearing-in, Dixon came to offer a few words of encouragement.
“The voters of York City have opened up an issue that’s long needed to be addressed,” said Nixon. “And that’s that people can change their lives. . . . You’re like a beacon of hope. But what I ask is the voters and the members of council to give other people the same equal opportunity.”
While Helfrich and Nixon are two “success stories,” there are many other stories of ex-prisoners who have not been so fortunate. Many are denied full-time employment opportunities, which often results in a return to the “path of least resistance,” which more often than not leads right back to prison.
What steps do you think need to be taken to ensure that those leaving prison are afforded the effort to turn their lives around? Do you know of any success stories? Share them with us in the comments!