Avivo participants meet legislators at Minnesota State Capitol

The 2019 Minnesota legislative session kicked off January 8. Avivo staff and participants are headed there for four days at the Capitol called “Days on the Hill” – including Second Chance Day, which took place on February 7.

A Day on the Hill generally starts with a rally at the Capitol, featuring prominent nonprofit and government leaders. (First Lady Gwen Walz spoke at Second Chance Day.) After the rally concludes, Avivo staff and participants meet with their legislators to share their stories.

For many attendees, it’s their first time at the Capitol and the first time meeting their legislators… ever. Richard is one of those people. He’d never been to the Capitol before Second Chance Day on the Hill. “I am a felon. I came to share my story,” says Richard. “I’m still the same person [I was], I just don’t commit crimes.”

Richard met with his senator, Sen. Sandy Pappas, to share his concerns and his story. He also had the opportunity to meet and share his story with Rep. Cheryl Youakim.

Three more Days on the Hill are scheduled where you can expect to find Avivo staff and participants:

Restore the Vote Day, March 7

Homeless Day, March 13

Mental Health Day, March 14

Stay tuned for more information surrounding these important rallies and days on the hill. Sign up for our monthly e-newsletter and follow Avivo on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.