From Fast Company:
In today’s dynamic labor market, industries from manufacturing to healthcare continue to grapple with persistent workforce shortages. To fill these gaps, organizations are looking beyond traditional talent pools. One of the most promising yet significantly underutilized groups is second-chance talent, or graduates of prison education programs. These individuals represent millions of highly motivated and skilled professionals seeking stability after incarceration.
Too often, outdated hiring methods and social stigmas have blocked justice-impacted individuals from employment opportunities that could change their lives. However, by shifting perspectives and implementing strategic programs, forward-thinking companies can access a dependable source of skilled workers while creating a positive social impact.
THE SCALE OF UNTAPPED POTENTIAL
The United States’ criminal justice system affects a much larger portion of the population than most realize. About 600,000 Americans are released from state and local prisons each year. This means nearly one in three or 70 million adults have a criminal record. Many of these individuals face obstacles when reentering society. In a recent episode of Geographic Solutions’ podcast, The VOScast, Jeffrey Abramowitz, CEO of the Petey Greene Program, stated, “It is estimated that there are more than 44,000 barriers to employment for the formerly incarcerated, with 70% related to employment.” Continue Reading >>>
|
|
|
|
