Dallas College is offering a free webinar, “Bridging the Gap from Prison to Promise,” hosted by Richard Miles, founder and operator of the Miles of Freedom nonprofit organization. The online event is scheduled to take place noon to 1 p.m. on Feb. 22.

Miles will discuss the importance of having a plan before leaving home. “I had goals, but I didn’t really have solid plans,” he said. “If you don’t have solid plans it leaves you vulnerable.”

In 1994, Miles was incarcerated for a crime he did not commit. He described his time in prison as feeling kidnapped by a system created to strip him of his individuality. Miles pursued an education while he fought for his release. He earned an associate degree in science and was released Oct. 10, 2009.

On Feb. 15, 2012, Texas’ highest state court, the Court of Criminal Appeals, found Miles innocent. This formal declaration of innocence came a little more than two years after his release. During those years before the declaration, he was still listed as a felon which made it difficult to find housing and employment.

Miles’ goal through his nonprofit organization is to help equip individuals after leaving incarceration. Individuals leaving incarceration may find themselves in an unplanned situation. “You ask for help,” Miles said. “The obstacle is bigger than you, so you need that bigger help.”

Miles of Freedom supports communities by helping empower and employ individuals with job readiness workshops. For more information visit milesoffreedom.org.