“I need people to know that I’m a successful business owner now. From having a record to owning a successful business,” said community member Daniel. Daniel came to Blocks Together simply looking for resources in his community, which is how he learned about the expungement program that Blocks hosts with Beyond Legal Aid. Daniel wanted his record expunged because it hindered the growth of his frozen dessert cart company, limiting where he could sell. He felt ready to leave that chapter of his life behind and move forward.
Community member, Daniel, working his frozen dessert cart on the lakefront.
Working closely with Blocks Together and Beyond attorney Michael Drake, Daniel felt confident in their ability to expunge his record. "I felt good working with Michael because he was confident that he could get my record expunged," he said. They succeeded, and Daniel described the moment as one of "immediate relief."
Reflecting on the experience, Daniel shared, "It’s up to you to clear your name, not your attorney. They prepare you, but it’s ultimately up to you." Stories like Daniel’s are important to share because they can provide hope to others in similar situations. As Daniel put it, "I went in for resources, and came out with a victory."
Please donate today to empower more community members like Daniel to achieve their own victories.