MIAMI – The U.S. Attorney’s Office is making a push to help ex-cons find jobs and turn their lives around. Hundreds of job seekers attended the recent Miami-Dade County’s 305 Second Chance Job & Resource Expo at the Main Library in downtown Miami, where U.S. Attorney’s Office staff were present to provide helpful community resources.
Many of the job seekers had previously been in prison, making it tough to land a job with a good company. Couple that with a lack of education, and these individuals are starting from a tough spot. That’s why reducing employment barriers for returning citizens is so critical, allowing them to become productive members of society and reducing the likelihood of reoffending.
“Many people we saw at the expo were so grateful for the opportunity to apply for jobs and get resource information in one location,” said Law Enforcement Coordination Specialist Mark McKinney, U.S. Attorney’s Office. “You can’t help but feel inspired and want to help them as best you can.”
Approximately 25 employers were onsite to take applications and conduct on-the-spot interviews. Social services, health and wellness, educational and vocational training, and resume development resources were also available. One local community organization recruiter noted that they can bring someone on board in as little as a week, depending on the position.
Certain positions, like preschool teacher, may require an associate or bachelor’s degree, but the expo showed that there are positions that can be a match for returning citizens. Additionally, government programs offer financial incentives to employers who hire returning citizens, such as bonds or tax credits.
“There appears to be momentum toward helping returning citizens find a living wage, and that’s a good thing,” said Law Enforcement Coordination/Community Outreach Section Chief J.D. Smith. “Our office provides resource information to returning citizens and hosts re-entry simulations to educate community members on the challenges facing these individuals. Educating the public is key, as many don’t know or think about the difficulties returning citizens face.”
Opportunities to get involved with returning citizens abound, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office encourages non-profit and faith-based partners to mentor and assist them in overcoming re-entry barriers.
Related Federal Cases
- Hialeah Bank Hit: Feds Need Your Help · Florida
- Florida Feds Demand Year-Round Respect for the Badge · Florida
- Florida Con Man Gets 39 Years for Impersonating Cops in Armed Robberies · Florida
- Florida Man Gets 50 Months for Capitol Assault · Washington
- Oath Keepers Get Prison Time for Capitol Riot · Florida
Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
🔒 Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
Browse More
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
Violent CrimeViolent CrimeViolent CrimeViolent Crime