As a young man who rose from gang-related trouble and jail time to the bench in Michigan District Court, Judge Greg Mathis is known for his dedication to offering youth second chances. HIRE, then, was a natural fit for the show, said Danielle Garcia, a senior producer. After some online research and an interview with HIRE Director Roberta Meyers-Peeples, “we knew it was one of the organizations we wanted to highlight,” she said. “We wanted to pay tribute to national organizations that are making a difference.” Like Judge Mathis, HIRE is about making change both in societal policy and in individuals’ lives.

“I have always admired Judge Mathis for his candor about his life and the impact education and a second chance has had on his successful career,” Ms. Meyers-Peeples said. “His story epitomizes the mission and goal of the National H.I.R.E. Network to ensure that anyone with a past criminal history who is committed to changing his/her life is given the opportunity to get employed and become a productive member of society.”

Ms. Meyers-Peeples said she was honored to help bring CEO’s work to light. “This group of men and women were a tiny representative sample of the millions of individuals with criminal histories across the country who are committed to changing their lives, want to work, and want to independently care for themselves and their families – but struggle with getting a job.”

CEO’s chief of external and legislative affairs,Tani Mills, said she was thrilled to be involved and expressed thanks both to HIRE and to Judge Mathis “for his leadership in crafting a powerful message about those who deserve a second chance and want to make positive contributions to the communities in which we all live."

The episode will be on at 1 p.m. on in New York City on WPIX, CH 11. Follow this link to find out when the show will air in other areas.