The CBS News Bay Area Icon Award goes to a North Bay lawyer who offers a safety net to those looking for a fresh start after serving time in jail.
Elissa Lasserre gives hope to those with criminal backgrounds by guiding them toward fresh starts.
“Yes! Yes, she responded, “because they’re worth it.”
Ten years ago, her story started. She advocated for a burglar’s rehabilitation outside of prison while working as a criminal defense lawyer for impoverished offenders.
“Probation had recommended that my client not be sent to state prison, but the judge disregarded that and sent the client to the maximum amount in state prison,” Lasserre told CBS Bay Area.
She was struck hard by the case.
“I was heartbroken. She said, “I was crying for about three days.” “I made the decision that I had to take action to keep people out of the criminal justice system. New Beginnings Law Center was established in this manner.
Since 2015, Lasserre and her team at New Beginnings Law Center have assisted about 500 individuals who have served their time in prison in reintegrating into their communities.
The wellness of the whole person—mind, body, soul, emotions, and community—is supported by her nonprofit organization in San Rafael.
In order to ensure that her clients receive the assistance they require in areas such as education, housing, job skills, legal assistance, substance addiction treatment, reestablishing family ties, and more, she works in conjunction with other organizations.
According to data from California’s state corrections department, four out of ten inmates who are released from prison wind up back in jail.
However, Lasserre said that there is virtually no recidivism among her clients.
“The reason we’re successful is because we’re compassionate, but we have accountability,” Lasserre said.
Until Lasserre assisted her in proving her sobriety and rehabilitation, Chivonne Bozarth was unable to obtain a car sales license due to her lengthy criminal history of drug use and burglaries.
After being inspired by Lasserre, Bozarth has found a new purpose in assisting people in recovery find employment at a nonprofit.
“What I would’ve imagined to be an impossible task, I feel like Elissa has conquered, not just for me, but with me,” Bozarth stated.
After Lasserre assisted Charles Lunnie in expunging his criminal record and guided him through the interview procedure, he was granted a real estate license.
It might be intimidating at times. “Charles, we must do this,” she would simply explain to me. I want you to do that, Charles. You’re doing fantastically, so don’t worry about it. You are truly exceptional. “I truly appreciate you supporting me along the way,” he said.
Lunnie works as a barber today and even donates free haircuts to charitable causes.
It’s like family in Lasserre. Lunnie claims that having her support makes his days “brighter.” Hope for better days.
The center does not offer free services. In accordance with federal poverty level requirements, clients pay on a sliding basis.
There is also no time restriction. According to Lasserre, she remains there as long as her clients require her.
Thus, Elissa Lasserre receives this week’s CBS News Bay Area Icon Award for embracing hundreds of individuals with criminal past who are looking for fresh starts.
Here, viewers can suggest a local hero for an Icon Award.
Eliot Pierce is a dedicated writer for ChiefsFocus.com, covering local crime and finance news. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Eliot aims to provide his readers with clear and insightful analysis, helping them navigate the complexities of their financial lives while staying informed about important local events. His commitment to delivering accurate and engaging content makes him a valuable resource for the community.