Kelson’s Journey

Patient, Determined, and Ready for What’s Next

At Ooh De Lally, our mission is rooted in second chances — real, meaningful ones that open doors to stability, purpose, and a future worth building. Through our partnership with Metropolitan Community College’s 180 Re-entry Assistance Program (180 RAP), we walk alongside individuals returning from incarceration as they learn, grow, and rediscover what’s possible.

One of those incredible individuals is Kelson, a graduate of the program whose quiet determination, work ethic, and heart have left a lasting mark on our team.

Finding His Way to Ooh De Lally

Kelson first learned about Ooh De Lally through a friend he met while incarcerated — someone who had gone through the 180 RAP program and found opportunity in our kitchen.

“I had a friend who worked here,” Kelson shared. “He told me he was gonna help me out with a job. Once I was eligible for work release, I contacted Metro and they got me in here.”

Like many entering the program, Kelson didn’t have restaurant experience. But he was open — hungry, even — for a chance to start fresh.

“This is the longest job I’ve ever had,” he said. “I’d never worked in a restaurant before, so I was just open to whatever and growing from there.”

He began as a dishwasher. Before long, he had learned nearly every role in the building.

“I did serving, cooking, dishwashing, cleaning, prep — pretty much everything,” he said. “I like cooking the most. It’s fast-paced and it challenges me.”

A Home Away From Home

Though Kelson is originally from Atlanta, Omaha became a meaningful part of his story.

Through Ooh De Lally, he found not just a workplace but an environment where he could challenge himself, feel supported, and rediscover what he was capable of.

“What I’ll miss most is the environment. Good people. Everybody has each other’s back,” he said. “It’s cool to be excited to come to work. I liked challenging myself.”

He described the kitchen as a place where he could grow openly and honestly, without judgment — something he didn’t always experience elsewhere.

“No matter what happens in your past, there’s always room to grow and come back from it,” he said. “That’s your testimony. Own it and keep pushing forward.”

Looking Ahead: A New Chapter

Kelson is returning home to Atlanta to reunite with his 9-year-old daughter, which is a milestone he has been looking toward for a long time.

He’ll be working with his brother, who owns a contracting business, and has plans to build financial stability and invest in a business of his own down the road.

“Just being a dad — that’s what I’m most looking forward to,” he said. “Not making up for lost time, but focusing on the future.”

He shared that the lessons he learned at Ooh De Lally — hard work, patience, positivity, and asking for help when you need it — will guide him not just in his next job, but in fatherhood too.

“Patience was the biggest lesson,” he said. “Stay positive and be patient — everything will work out.”

Advice for Others Starting Their Journey

Kelson hopes future participants in the 180 RAP program know that where you begin doesn’t define where you can end up.

“Even if you’re starting somewhere you don’t want to start, there’s always room to grow,” he shared. “If you stay at it and put in the work, you’ll get where you want to go.”

He encourages others not to be afraid to reach out for help, knowing firsthand how much a supportive environment can change everything.

“It’s never bad to ask for help,” he said. “Just keep at it and you’ll achieve your goals.”

A Lasting Impact

Kelson’s time at Ooh De Lally reminds us why this work matters, why second chances, community support, and meaningful employment are so vital for individuals rebuilding their lives.

We are incredibly proud of Kelson, grateful for the energy and heart he brought to our team, and excited for what’s ahead for him. His journey is proof that with persistence, support, and opportunity, transformation is not only possible — it’s powerful.

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If you’d like to support Ooh De Lally’s mission — and contribute to success stories like Kelson’s — consider a donation today.