Jobs for Felons: Give former felons a chance to work

J.T. Weis - The Detroit News

Picture by By https://kazan.vperemen.com/

At Abcor Industries we live out the triple bottom line: people, planet, and profit. This is driven by my faith, which teaches that all people are of equal value, redeemable and entitled to the dignity that God intended when he created us.

After years of working in the corporate world, my desire to live a more meaningful existence continued to grow. With that in mind, entrepreneurship was the path to pursue this goal and I acquired Abcor Industries in Holland, Michigan.



Abcor has the technology for powder coating wood and is leading the drive for innovating higher performing wood materials.

Owning Abcor allows us the freedom to make decisions which improve people’s lives and drive an enterprise that contributes to the betterment of the planet. Additionally, we support important nonprofit entities, institutions and schools.

As a senior manager at publicly traded companies, I wasn’t able to deploy a felon hiring strategy — or consider anyone with a criminal history. With Abcor, we are breaking the stigmas and helping change people’s lives.

More than half of our production employees have been convicted of felonies and have served long sentences, hence repaying their debt to society. My intention is to continue to do everything possible to ensure they are productive members of a dynamic entrepreneurial company.

Productive employment is the leading force in their personal mission to build a new successful life as a responsible tax paying citizen. Productive employment is the leading factor in reducing recidivism. We are an important component of their life recovery. They are a vital part of our success.

Recently, I was invited to a forum on the subject of hiring re-entering citizens. At first, it was very encouraging to see so many human resource executives interested and open to the practice. However, each of the executives had a common theme of being only interested in “light felony” applicants. This was clearly driven by a risk mitigation approach.

Toward the end of the forum, they asked me to opine on their approach. They were surprised by my response that short sentence “light felony” applicants had a higher fallout rate and were more difficult to manage. Those who have served the longer sentences are very motivated, highly loyal and committed to the mission.

Currently, we at Abcor and other employers are urging the Legislature to pass bills currently before the state House Law and Justice Committee that would remove some barriers to employment and require objective reasons for denying parole to low-risk prisoners.

Right now, there are too many who remain incarcerated and present the lowest risk to public safety. The law requires that denying parole to people who present the lowest risk to public safety can only be based on objective reasonings. Subjective parole denial is immoral, and it’s wrong. Not only is it counter to our values, it also wastes millions of taxpayer dollars annually on keeping these low-risk prisoners locked up.

There remains much more the state of Michigan can do to help. It should continue to expand vocational training during incarceration, implement laws and financial benefits for bridging organizations that help the released find employment, housing and transportation. In my view, the Department of Corrections could and should become a powerful force by investing in these systems and have a positive impact on workforce development.

Every year, nearly 10,000 people return from prison to Michigan communities. Many are unable to find employment due to their criminal records, even though many employers face a shortage of available workers. There exists a significant opportunity to do better.

Those in position to do so, should construct systems, laws and enterprises to set the groundwork for personal recovery. There is a major win-win for society available to us all and we need to act upon it.

J.T. Weis is the owner of Abcor Industries in Holland, Michigan.

Jobs for Felons: The Facts about Companies that Hire Ex offenders and Felons

Jobs for Felons: Give former felons a chance to work

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Eric Mayo

Can I get a Professional Job with a Criminal Record?

Can I get a Professional Job with a Criminal Record?

Hello,

I have been trying to get a job with an insurance company or large law firms and no one is calling me back. I assume it is because I was arrested in 2002 and plead out to probation. I am not a convicted felon, but that is still on my record. Also, I have an arrest for battery on my record, but the case got thrown out. Can you really help? I received an email from Allstate that they want to set up an interview with me next week. Will this mess me up once they look up my background?


Mattie

Can I get a Professional Job with a Criminal Record?

Hello Mattie,

Let's start at the beginning.  You state that you plead to probation, which means that you were convicted.  I don't know what your conviction was for, but if you were convicted of any type of theft, fraud or robbery, some jobs may not be available to you. 

In case of any other arrests, employers are more concerned with convictions rather that arrests.  That is why the question on applications typically begin with. "Have you been convicted of a crime..."  I encourage all ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs to get a copy of their criminal records so that they can answer this question honestly and accurately.  The best place to get this is from your probation officer.  I'm sure he/she can get a copy for you.

When your interview comes, as I advise everyone with a criminal record, answer every question honestly, but never volunteer information.  If the question does come up on the interview like this, "I'm glad you are asking this question, because I want you to feel comfortable hiring me....."  Then briefly explain the circumstance surrounding the infraction.  Spend more time talking about the steps you have taken to overcome that situation.

Don't assume that your legal issues are the reason you are getting few call backs.  Continue to apply for every job you qualify for for.  Don't assume that because you have a record, you won't be considered.

I would also try to find out if expungement in your state.  Expungement essentially means that your criminal record would be hidden from public view.  Once that is done, you may claim not to have a record when responding to the "Have you ever been convicted....." question.  Expungement is a legal process that you should not try alone.  You should contact your local legal aid office to see if your state offers the opportunity for expungement.  You may also qualify for free legal services.

 "Top Five Job Interview Mistakes Ex-offenders and Felons Make"

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Can I get a Professional Job with a Criminal Record?

Grants for Felons

There are grants available for felons who are looking to start a small business.

Donna Fuscaldo - Business.com

Finding a job after incarceration has long been a challenge. Having a felony on your record carries a huge stigma when you are seeking employment. According to the Brookings Institution, close to half of ex-prisoners have no reported earnings in the initial years following their release. Of those who do find employment, half make around $10,090 a year – well below the poverty level.

One second-chance option is to join the ranks of small business owners across the U.S., although that path also presents challenges with training and funding. However, government agencies and nonprofits have stepped up to lend some support. From grants to microloans, here's a look at the aid available for felons who want to start a business.

What is a government grant?

A government grant is money provided by federal, state or local government agencies that doesn't have to be paid back. The funding, which typically targets specific groups, can cover everything from education to business startup costs.

However, there aren't many government grants specifically for felons. In the past, there were more social programs, but today, a convicted felon must compete with other business owners for grants and other types of financial assistance.

"We have a decades-old prejudice built in us," Bill Collins, a mentor for SCORE, told business.com. "It is difficult to get grants, difficult to get loans and difficult to get financing."

Some states do have training and grant programs specifically targeted at recently released felons. However, the dollar amount tends to be small, and the programs aren't widespread. Nonetheless, there are still funding resources for people with felony convictions.

Grants are also offered by foundations, corporations and other entities.

What are grants for felon business owners?

Grants.gov operates a federal government grant database that is accessible through a browser or mobile app. You can search the database by keyword, funding type, eligibility, category and other criteria.

You're better off casting a wider net by using more general search terms when looking for grants on this website. For example, a search using the keyword "felons" yielded no results, but "startup" did. Look for grants geared toward entrepreneurs, small businesses, industry, gender and heritage, instead of those intended specifically for felons or ex-prisoners. You can apply for grants directly from Grants.gov. [Want to learn the type of small business grants available? Click here.]

Department of Labor grants

The U.S. Department of Labor has grant programs to help people who have criminal records. These grants cover housing, small business expenses and other costs. Anyone is eligible to apply for the grants, so competition can be fierce.

Federal Student Aid grants

Sometimes, starting a business requires training or additional education. To make education more obtainable and affordable, the federal government offers grants and student aid. The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, or FSEOG, is a federal grant for undergraduate students who exhibit "exceptional" financial need. Awards range from $400 to $4,000. You can't use the money to start a business, but you can get the training needed to successfully operate one.

Keep in mind that it may be difficult to get a grant. Priority is given to Federal Pell Grant recipients first, and felons are ineligible for that program.

"Like any business grants, they are never easy or common," said Danny Fitzgerald, acting regional director for the Small Business Development Center in San Diego. "The trick for many [with a felony conviction] is getting regular loans."

Small Business Administration programs

The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers programs, such as free training and loans, designed to help entrepreneurs get their businesses up and running. Depending on your situation, some or all of the programs may be right for you.

Boots to Business

Boots to Business is an entrepreneurial and educational training program provided by the SBA. Through the course, participants get an overview of what entrepreneurship is, learn business ownership fundamentals, and are exposed to the skills and resources needed to write a business plan and launch an enterprise. It is a two-day program that's normally run in person. Following the completion of Boots to Business, participants get access to the SBA's B2B Revenue Readiness online course in partnership with Mississippi State University.

Run in conjunction with the Boots to Business program is the Boots to Business Funding Opportunity, which is awarded exclusively to Boots to Business participants. Through this program, the SBA provides support to the business for five years.

SBA microloans

Microloans are a popular way for people with little or no credit history to access small business loans. The SBA's microloan program provides small businesses with loans of up to $50,000. The SBA partners with nonprofit community-based organizations to issue and administer the loans. The average microloan is around $13,000, with interest rates averaging between 8% and 11%. Proceeds from the SBA's microloans can be used for working capital, inventory or supplies, furniture or fixtures, and machinery or equipment.

The SBA's microloan program is particularly attractive for felons because most approved lenders aren't looking for an excellent credit score or an expansive credit history. "Microlenders are comfortable in credit-building situations," Fitzgerald said.

Crowdfunding

Crowdfunding has become a popular way to test a business idea or raise funding. Through these digital platforms, you present your idea, list how much you are looking to raise and launch your campaign. Individuals can invest in your company in exchange for stock or gear. Most business owners don't get rich through crowdfunding, but it is a way to raise some startup capital.

"The challenge with crowdfunding sometimes is, you can get lost in a sea of funding requests," said Michael Brooks, associate director of the Alabama SBDC Network. "America loves a good recovery, redemption story. If you have a good story to tell, it's possible you'll get interest."

Popular crowdfunding sites for business owners include Indiegogo and Kickstarter.

What are other resources for felon business owners?

Raising capital and using a microloan are common ways felons can start a business, but they aren't the only avenues. Depending on the support system of the individual, the felon may be able to tap friends and family for loans. Alternatively, felons can choose a business that they can get up and running with little capital, such as painting or landscaping.

Ultimately, it pays to take advantage of any training programs available while you are incarcerated, as you can gain skills that can help you find employment and launch a business.

For example, skilled trades such as plumbing, HVAC and carpentry are seeing high demand right now, Collins said, and gaining those kinds of skills is a good way to get jobs and a path toward business ownership.

 

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  Eric Mayo

Felons' mom wants to help them get jobs

Felons' mom wants to help them get  jobs

A CLOSER LOOK AT THE FAMILIES OF MASS INCARCERATION

I live in North Carolina and I have two sons. One is 24 and the other is 21. The 24 year old got in trouble 5 years ago for DWI and for having less than an ounce of marijuana on him. He went to rehab and has worked construction and done pylon work. He can not get employment anywhere because of his record what can be done? He has not been in any trouble since then.

The 21 year old has had several issues with Driving with no operators license, DWI, drinking underage. He was charged back in 2016 at the time of the incident but did not go to trial until last year. So he decided to get it over with and do his days in jail to not have to deal with probation. Recently he tried to get on with a company he worked for before and because of the charges they would not hire him back.

How long does someone have to keep on paying for crimes committed years ago. Both these boys deserve a chance to make it in this world, unfortunately they were not able to attend college because being a single mother I could not afford it. I have worked for the same company for over 20 years, this same company is the one that would not hire my son back. At some point doesn't the state step in and say enough is enough, a lot of the people we have tried to hire have records of some sort and because of it we can't hire them, so instead people like me who have fended by myself raising two boys have to support them when they go on welfare. What can I do or they do to find a job?

Charmane,

Felons' mom wants to help them get  jobs

Hello Charmane,

I'm sorry your sons are having so much trouble. I suggest that they apply for employment at temporary agencies. Temp agencies are always looking for good people. When applying for temporary employment, ex-offenders and felons should apply at smaller independent agencies rather that the large nationally known agencies. Usually smaller agencies do not have a parent companies setting hiring restrictions on them. They hire anyone they choose. Often if temporary employees are good, they are hired on a permanent basis.

Another option is to apply at construction contractors.  Contractors are always looking for employees who can get to work on time and put in a full days work for a full days pay.  Those with special skills like masonry or carpentry would be given a fair chance regardless of their criminal records


There is also a link below to companies that give chances to qualified felons.

The best of luck to you and your sons.

Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons: Where can Ex-offenders Find Jobs

Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons: Ten Steps to Getting a Job with a Criminal Record

This Book Has Helped Thousands of Felons Get Jobs ! You can get a copy of this book for as little as $5.00 Click Here!

Felons' mom wants to help them get  jobs

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Hiring As A Second Chance

Originally published at Forbes.com

You make a lot of potentially life-changing decisions when you’re a boss. You promote someone — or you have to let them go. You give someone a raise. You send a new product into the world. 

But none of these has been as life changing as the times my partner and I have been able to give a job candidate a second chance at life simply by hiring them. These are employees who were once in prison or rehab or who came to us from a sober living house. In too many cases, having those experiences on a job record has proved detrimental to career opportunities. In fact, according to the National HIRE Network, “Nearly 75% of formerly incarcerated individuals are still unemployed a year after release.” And when 1 in 3 American adults has a criminal record, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures, that’s both a disaster and an opportunity that’s currently being wasted.

Fortunately, many large companies — like Walmart, Starbucks, Home Depot and more — have changed their hiring practices to include people with criminal records. And in the case of our small business, every time we’ve hired someone with a criminal record or who has gone through rehab, we’ve been paid back with exceptional productivity, increased loyalty and overall great morale. For the employees, it’s meant a chance to prove themselves and to excel, setting them up for a successful future.

Here are some key reasons it makes sense to give people a second chance — and how you can do the same in a way that offers the best path to success for everyone.

Employment lowers recidivism rates.

Here’s a shocking fact: According to a Bureau of Labor Statistics study, 83% of state prisoners were rearrested during the first nine years after their release. Is that because they’re hopeless career criminals? Maybe for a few. But studies consistently show that lack of education and lack of employment are linked with recidivism rates. Basically, you can help people stay out of jail by giving them a job. This doesn’t apply to just any employment — if people only have fast-food job options, that does not lower recidivism rates. But if they can get jobs in construction or manufacturing, or in jobs that offer the potential for growth, that correlates with a decrease in returns to prison.

You get hard work, dedication and gratitude.

Our experience mirrors those of other small businesses: The people we’ve hired have demonstrated hard work and dedication. According to the ACLU report “Back to Business: How Hiring Formerly Incarcerated Job Seekers Benefits Your Company,” when employers hire ex-offenders, “Retention rates are higher, turnover is lower, and employees with criminal records are more loyal.”

One of our best employees is an ex-offender with a wife and children, who humbly and happily started his career with us at the bottom of the totem pole: on the assembly line. One year later, he had done such outstanding work that he was promoted to line manager. He’s now been with us two and a half years and is such a role model that we profiled him in a Father’s Day post on our company blog! 

People who have gone to rehab for drug or alcohol issues are already outstanding in one key way: Although 40 million Americans meet the criteria for substance addiction, only 10% receive treatment. 

You can help change the story.

You can provide the example that ex-offenders and people just out of rehab are not only worthy of employment, but they can also benefit the whole community with increased productivity and even safety. 

One very dramatic example: In the past, prisoners who worked alongside professional firefighters during California’s wildfires were barred from becoming firefighters themselves due to their criminal records. But this fall, in the midst of the worst wildfires the state has ever seen, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a bill to expunge the records of certain prisoners (violent and sex offenders excluded), making them eligible for EMT training en route to becoming professional firefighters.

You can get a tax break.

Another big incentive may be money. Note that this only applies to hiring an ex-offender, but the benefits are pretty significant. Thanks to the federal Work Opportunity Tax Credit, employers who hire a qualified ex-felon can claim a tax credit of up to 25% of their first year’s wages if the employee works at least 120 hours, and 40% if they work over 400. If you’re a small business owner, your state or municipality may also offer additional incentives.

How to make it work: Set them up to succeed. 

Just throwing someone into a new job and letting them sink or swim is a recipe for disaster. Here are ways you can have the greatest possible chance of success:

• Give clear guidelines and expectations. Everyone needs a well-defined job description and clear targets to hit, and this is particularly true for ex-offenders and those recently out of rehab. 

• Make sure there’s a true pathway for growth so they don’t feel stuck in a dead-end job or that they’re being patronized with menial tasks.

• Pair them with a mentor who can offer guidance and answer questions.

• Encourage them to continue their education, and/or provide workplace training that can equip them for increasing responsibility.

• Schedule regular one-on-one conversations to hear how it’s going and to give feedback.

Giving someone a second chance doesn’t mean doing them a favor. It means seizing a great opportunity that has huge potential benefits for both sides.

Jobs for Felons: The Facts about Companies that Hire Ex offenders and Felons

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Hiring As A Second Chance

Eric Mayo