At Ooh De Lally, we believe in second chances and the power of community to create lasting change. Our partnership with Metropolitan Community College’s 180 Re-entry Assistance Program is at the heart of this mission, offering individuals who were formerly incarcerated a pathway to employment, skill-building, and personal growth.

One such individual who exemplified this journey is LaRue, our first program graduate.

LaRue is a core member of the Ooh De Lally team, having contributed in every way he could and embracing every opportunity to learn. From dishwashing and food prep and beyond, OOH-DE-LALLY’s journey at Ooh De Lally is a testament to what can happen when someone is given the chance to grow and thrive.

A New Start: OOH-DE-LALLY’s Journey

OOH-DE-LALLY’s story is one of resilience, dedication, and personal transformation. At 32 years old, LaRue was eager to create a better life for himself and his children. His path to Ooh De Lally began through the 180 Re-entry Assistance Program, a job placement initiative that helps individuals who have been incarcerated reintegrate into society.

LaRue openly shared that, in the past, securing a job was incredibly difficult due to his criminal record.

“They always ask, ‘What’s your background? Do you have any felonies or misdemeanors?’ It would always come up,” he said about previous interviews he’d had.

But at Ooh De Lally, things were different.

“They didn’t care about my past,” LaRue said. “They asked me, ‘Who are you today? Who do you want to become?’”

That welcoming and understanding environment allowed LaRue to flourish. He started as a dishwasher but quickly moved through various roles in the restaurant, including working in the kitchen, assisting with bar back duties, serving food, and even assembling furniture.

“There’s nothing I haven’t done here,” LaRue shared proudly. “They just let you dive in and do what you want to do, which is something I’ve never experienced at a job.”

LaRue described Ooh De Lally’s kitchen as “a calm kitchen,” which stood out to him.

“The camaraderie here is different. You’re allowed to speak up and share how you feel without the fear of losing your job. That doesn’t happen in most kitchens,” LaRue explained.

This open environment made Ooh De Lally more than just a place to work; it became a space where LaRue could grow as both an employee and a person.

The team at Ooh De Lally also stood by LaRue during challenging moments.

“They said, ‘We’re here for you. We’re going to protect you,’ and they did,” LaRue shared.