More than a dozen convicted felons and at-risk youth spent the day in the community. They're all in a program that has a twofold mission to rehabilitate ex-convicts and provide them with a job until they can get on their feet.

The Newburg neighborhood is full of abandoned houses, vacant lots and knee-high grass.

"Several complaints and concerns have been registered with council woman Shanklin," said Rev. Roosevelt Lightsy.

Lightsy spent the day cutting grass and trimming trees in the neighborhood and he had plenty help.

"It's difficult to find employers who are willing to take a chance on people that are trying to get their lives back together," said Lightsy.

Most of Lightsy's help is part the Newburg Youth Council or the Justice Reinvestment Pilot Project made up of at risk youth and convicted felons.

"I had issues. I have been in trouble before, but that's not what I'm trying to do today," said Lena Bailey, ex-convict.

Most of them are here because they can't find a job.

"I'm trying to find work right now," said Bailey.

Bailey admits she's has a troubled past and wants to make changes, but she usually gets the same response when applying for a job.

"If you a convicted felon, they can't hire you," said Bailey.

Bailey will continue working with the Justice Reinvestment Pilot Project.  It's not a big paycheck, but she is compensated for her time.

"We're able to pay them a slight fund of about $10 an hour for their work as long as the money holds out we're able to do that," said Lightsy.

The money is provided by Metro Council members Dr. Barbara Shanklin and Jim King, but that's not the only reward for a hard days work.

One of those neighbors is Howard McClain.

"We call every year about that lot," said McClain.

Who is glad to see someone finally taking care of the eyesore next door.

"I was really glad to see someone taking care of that. It shows my tax dollars are being spent properly," said McClain.

There are some convicted felons who are not accepted into the program such as sex offenders and people who have committed crimes against children.