Second Chance Month is an effort to highlight attempts to provide opportunities to those individuals who have committed a crime and are wanting to re-enter into society. However, for some, this may be their first chance at an opportunity to change their life. The Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce has been involved in this work since 2017 when we launched REDI, or the Re-Entry Development Initiative. REDI was formed in response to employers’ need to find more employees in a tight labor market. Our region continues to see low rates of unemployment and employers across all industries tell us finding employees is one of their biggest challenges to growing their company. |
Embracing second chance hiring allows businesses to access a diverse talent pool that might otherwise be overlooked. Many individuals who have encountered setbacks in the past possess valuable skills, experiences, and a strong desire to succeed. By providing them with employment opportunities, businesses can harness this untapped potential and benefit from the unique perspectives and resilience they bring to the table.
Additionally, research indicates that employees who are given a second chance often display higher levels of loyalty and dedication to their employers. By offering stability and support, businesses can cultivate a sense of loyalty among second chance hires, leading to lower turnover rates and reduced recruitment costs. Investing in training and upskilling programs for these employees can result in a more skilled and productive workforce over time.
Implementing Second Chance Hiring Practices
The Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce (TRCC) has several resources that can help businesses effectively incorporate second chance hiring into their recruitment strategies. On April 18th, the TRCC’s REDI Initiative, in partnership with Northwest Ohio Human Resource Association (NOHRA), will present Tap into Hidden Talent with Fair Chance Hiring, a dynamic discussion on fair chance hiring strategies to unlock the potential of our workforce. Attendees will gain access to cutting-edge strategies for hiring citizens re-entering the workforce, empowering your organization to tap into untapped talent and strengthen your skilled workforce community.
Agenda Highlights
- Learn about the impact of employment and significance to the community when hiring justice impacted individuals from Vernise Robinson, Workforce Development Administrator, Ohio Department of Rehabilitation & Correction (ODRC).
- Receive guidance with expanding potential workforce with the ReEntry Development Initiative (REDI), a program of the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce.
- Insights from a panel of Human Resource professionals sharing best practices.
- Jennifer Fought, Human Resources Manager, Hale Performance Coatings
- Lee Daher, Senior Business Representative, Central Midwest Regional Council of Carpenters
- Shayna Duke, Human Resources Business Partner, Principle Business Enterprises
- Explore Harbor’s Career Path program, tailored to empower justice involved individuals through upskilling opportunities and career coaching. Learn about Renhill’s pivotal role in supporting this initiative by offering liability coverage and wages for program participants.
Registration for the event is available here and additional resources are also available below:
April's designation as Second Chance Hiring Month is a perfect time for businesses to explore the opportunities second chance hiring could provide, both as an employer and to a future employee. By giving individuals a second chance, businesses not only unlock untapped talent, but also contribute to a more diverse and inclusive workforce. As we navigate the complexities and challenges of today’s dynamic workforce, let us seize this opportunity to build a brighter future for all through the power of second chances.