Tips to Finding a Job After Prison
You’ve done your time, and now you’re trying to start over. But when it comes to getting a job, you may hit a roadblock. That’s the reality for many people with criminal records.
But there’s hope! Organizations are working to help people get that crucial second chance.
Find Work with Support from American Job Centers
American Job Centers are here to help you find work. They have lots of services in one place to make your job search easier. You can get training, advice on finding a job, and see what jobs are available. You can go to a center, use their website, or use a kiosk to access their information.
Click here to find an American Job Center near you using our resource map.
A Job Club Can Help You Get Hired
Job clubs are another resource to help you find work. They often offer networking opportunities, coaching, resume help, and interview practice. Some clubs focus on a certain type of job or industry.
Look for job clubs near you using our resource map.
U.S. Department of Labor: Helping People Get Back to Work
The U.S. Department of Labor is all about getting Americans working. And that means everyone—including people with criminal records. Programs like Ready to Work that provide individuals the skills and support they need to get a job. Ready to Work funds groups that provide job training, help with finding work, and even things like housing assistance and mentorship.
The program is designed to help people who’ve been out of work for a while get back on track and build a future.
Workforce Development Centers: Your Local Job Hub
Workforce development centers are like one-stop shops for job seekers. They hook you up with training programs, career advice, and help finding work. Plus, they can connect you with local employers, community groups, and services for housing and more. It’s all about giving people the tools they need to succeed. Find a workforce development center near you—search the Job Assistance category on our map.
States with Ban the Box and Clean Slate Laws
States are getting wise to how hard it is for people with records to get hired. That’s why over 30 states have passed Ban the Box laws. These laws make it so employers cannot ask about criminal history on the initial job application. It levels the playing field and gives folks a better chance at getting in the door. And it’s working—Ban the Box has created opportunities for many people, while reducing recidivism. Some states go even further with Clean Slate laws.
These Clean Slate laws wipe clean certain criminal records after a period of time of someone staying on the right path. It’s like a fresh start button. States that have passed a clean slate law include:
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- New Jersey
- New York
- Oklahoma
- Pennsylvania
- Utah
- Virginia
Real Life Examples
- Ready to Work in Action: Groups funded by Ready to Work are changing lives. The Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) uses Ready to Work funds to provide job training, placement, and support to individuals coming home. CEO has helped thousands find work and build careers. See if there is a location near you.
- Workforce Centers: The Tampa Bay Workforce Alliance in Florida is one example of a workforce center doing reentry right. They provide job training, career help, and placement services to people coming out of the justice system. And they don’t stop there—the organization connects people with housing and other essentials to set them up for success.
- Ban the Box and Clean Slate: States with Ban the Box and Clean Slate laws are seeing results. California’s Ban the Box law has opened doors for people with records and reduced recidivism. And Pennsylvania’s Clean Slate law has already wiped clean millions of records, giving folks a true second chance.
Your Path Forward of Hope and Opportunity
There’s still work to do, but it’s clear—the U.S. Department of Labor, workforce development centers, and smart state policies are paving the way for people with criminal records to rebuild their lives. By providing support and removing barriers, individuals can get stable work, contribute to their communities, and prove that everyone deserves a second chance.
Get Connected
- U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration: dol.gov/agencies/eta
- National Reentry Resource Center: csgjusticecenter.org/nrrc
- Ban the Box Campaign: nela.org/sites/default/files/uploads/2017/06/DLA_Ban_the_Box_Fact_Sheet.pdf
- Clean Slate Initiative: cleanslateinitiative.org/
