Never failing to bring a lively energy to the office, Color’s excitement and humor infects everyone with laughter.

When he finally got his learner’s permit, he tore into the Soteria offices with the joy of a teen.

He chose the name “Color” while he was in prison, which he says represents his value of unity and being open to everyone. After spending some time with him, that belief, too, is infectious. 

Color served over 30 years in prison. “My life was taken from me, and it was given back to me, so I try to enjoy and respect every day of it.” 

Now, he says he’ll work in “rain, sleet, or snow,” and brings a sense of pride for Soteria to his community of fellow interns at the woodshop. Jerry Blassingame, Soteria’s founder, has been a mentor for him.

“Jerry helped me out, he took me when nobody else would really take me. To be honest with you, I forget I’m in a program when I’m here. Jerry lets me live, he lets me experience life, it’s all new to me, he’s like a brother and a father and all of them, he’s my family.”