Employer services
As an employer, one of the biggest impacts you can make is offering fair chance employment. 1 in 3 adults have been justice impacted, and 1 in 10 have a felony conviction. With the labor force deficit, we can’t afford to leave people sidelined and without meaningful employment.
Connecting the dots
Fair Chance job applicants provide a diversified talent pool filled with varied skills and experiences.
Preparing Our Clients
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Connections Work helps meet EMPLOYER NEEDS by providing individuals having justice system involvement with the skills and tools for successful employment.
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We understand the importance of offering a supportive and inclusive environment fostering growth, learning, and personal development.
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Our support is tailored to address the unique needs and challenges faced by those seeking fair chance employment, and we're committed to providing resources and support every step of the way.
We want our clients to stand out!
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Providing Assistance
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Proper identification needed for employment.
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Essential Skill Training focusing on conflict resolution, decisiveness, problem-solving, and communication skills.
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Skill assessments using WIN Learning Tool to help identify strengths, literacy, and numeracy competencies.
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Basic trade skills training for clients enrolled in our Registered Pre-Apprenticeship program including OSHA 10 Certification.
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Financial Literacy Support to establish bank accounts and budget and savings habits.
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Create a resume highlighting skills, work experience and education.
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Discuss career pathways and mapping.
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Provide necessary footwear or other PPE not provided by the employer.
Connecting to Employers
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Recruitment Assistance Resume screening and referral of candidates.
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Promote Job Openings We maintain an Internal job board advancing your job opportunities.
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Reduce Turnover Employee retention strategies and support.
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Communicate As a good community partner, we share pertinent hiring incentive information and relevant ideas.
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Engagement We believe in building relationships and want to better understand your needs.
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Connecting with Talent
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Meet with our Employment Development Team to learn about fair chance hiring.
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Host recruitment events in our office promoting your company, the job opportunities and how to apply.
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Attend our Connections in Action Career Fairs held twice a year.
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Join us for our R3 Graduation ceremonies.
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Keep us up to date on job openings at your company.
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Have the Employment Development Team tour your facility to better understand your needs​.
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Let's connect and explore how we can collaborate to create meaningful opportunities and transform lives.
Collaborating with Connections Work
Show your support
Use this logo to actively promote your commitment to diversity and inclusion in your job postings, company website, and social media platforms. This will help attract applicants who align with your values and are seeking an inclusive work environment.
Email us for your free logo.
By supporting these initiatives, together, we create partnerships that benefit both your organization and the broader community.
How
Actions speak louder than words. Ensure your hiring practices and workplace policies align with your message of inclusivity and equity. Actively seek out diverse candidates and foster a culture that values and respects all employees.
Why
By embodying these values and creating an inclusive workplace, you can attract and retain top talent, improve employee morale and productivity, and build a stronger community.
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connections work
Santos attending our Career Fair as a job seeker in 2016
Reading Eagle
Susan L. Angstadt 11/21/16
I believe everybody should have a second chance. We all make mistakes. You can hold that against a person for the rest of their lives or give them an opportunity to shine.
Brad Stephenson,
Owner, New Castle Lawn and Landscape
Santos attending our Career Fair as a Representative for New Castle Lawn and Landscape in 2024
Gainful employment is one of the most effective ways to reduce recidivism rates among individuals with a criminal record. By offering second chances and stable employment opportunities, employers play a crucial role in supporting rehabilitation and reducing repeat offenses.Further, embracing a culture of second chances fosters empathy, understanding, and inclusivity among employees. It sends a powerful message that everyone deserves an opportunity to succeed and grow, contributing to a positive work environment and enhanced employee morale.
Pamela Hernandez,
Senior VP, Chief People Officer at Tower Health
Connections in action career fair
Connecting employers with skilled workers
The career fair is open to all job seekers in the Berks community with past or present justice involvement. This is a chance for many to pursue a career with companies offering fair chances employment opportunities. Your support truly makes a difference in the lives of many, and we are grateful for your interest to create a more inclusive and equitable workforce.
In my ongoing conversations with local employers across all industries, the need to attract and retain talent in a challenging labor market remains their major barrier to full business recovery and future growth. Local employers will want to consider registering for the Connections In Action Career Fair where they will meet with a diverse group of eager job-seekers who might be a good match for their current and future needs.
Dan Fogarty
COO, Berks County Workforce Development Board
Find Out More
Articles supporting fair chance employment:
Best Practices Recruiting and Hiring Guide
Building Community Partnerships
Business-Case for Second Chance Employment
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For more information, email: HelpWithHiring@ConnectionsWork.org