James Williams has worked hard to achieve the life he has now. He has a steady job with the Department of Sanitation in Greenwich, CT. He coaches his 12-year-old son’s basketball team and has built a strong community in Norwalk. “I feel a strong connection to my community. Coaching and participating in sports for so many years, I know so many people. Now with my son James, I am looking at life in a whole different way.”
“When I re-entered my community after nine years in 2007, I channeled my energy into finding ways to help others who were struggling. I started a “Back to School” giveaway in the neighborhood where kids got a backpack and school supplies. We even had snacks in there and it was all free!” That effort went on for several years until COVID-19 impacted our donors.”
“I first came to Hang Time just a few months ago. I was looking for people to support me in my struggle. I caught a case five and a half years ago. Despite turning my life around, being regularly employed, and contributing to my community since 2007, unfortunately, the case is still unresolved. Hang Time has helped support me in so many ways. I am so grateful to be a part of them.”
Lately, James has been frustrated by the housing discrimination against felons. It poses a big problem when they return. “We have done our time. It’s frustrating to be judged and rejected for decent apartments because of our record. For example, I found a great place in Black Rock and they agreed to rent to me. I have worked a solid job for 6.5 years. The agent acted positive when we met as I am a well-spoken, employed man. Then the next time we spoke they had rented it to another guy. They saw “Felon” on my record and didn’t look further at the person. It was very demoralizing and it continues to happen to people I know. My plan is to get a building and allow people with records to live in decent safe places.”
“When I was away I got certified as a Personal Trainer. I am good at it and I know what I am doing. The word got out. Mayor Joe Ganim was incarcerated with me as well as Senator Ernie Newton. I ended up training both of them! Before Mayor Ganim got reelected he was looking for work as a Trainer. He came to me to help him with that! Every time we run into each other he gives me mad love.”
James’ Parents reside in Norwalk. He has a sister and a twin brother. I asked if he and his twin got mistaken for each other on the street. “We do not look anything alike actually. We are fraternal twins so there is never any mixup. Growing up we got away with a lot though!”
