US Probation Providing Second Chances

Job seekers with a criminal record often feel like an employer is never going to give them an opportunity.  The United States Probation & Pretrial Services Office of Western Pennsylvania proves this is not the case.  On April 29, 2016, The US Probation Office in Pittsburgh will host its Third Annual Job Fair at the Federal Courthouse.  This event gives former offenders on supervision with the court an opportunity to connect with local employers.  The US Probation Job Fair also proves that employers are willing to give a Second Chance to candidates who are able to demonstrate their value regardless of a criminal past.

The Job Fair at US Probation has become one of Pittsburgh's best workforce development events.  Employers who have participated the past two years have said:

"Some of the best prepared candidates I have ever met at a job fair!"

"I was at a college career fair yesterday; the job seekers I've met at this event are much more professional and ready for a job fair."

"Everybody deserves a second chance, and that's why we are here today."

A job seeker with a criminal record must work much harder and be better prepared than those job seekers without a criminal past in order to compete in the job market.  With this in mind, Jessica Albert (Community Resource Specialist at US Probation Pittsburgh) and her team spend weeks helping probationers get ready for the moment to capitalize on their chance to discuss career opportunities with a potential employer.  Probationers, in preparation for the event, spend weeks in job readiness classes studying topics such as Dress for Success, Handling Difficult Interview Questions, Contact & Follow-Up with Employers, Networking, and Highlighting Skills to Employers.

"Job Readiness becomes a little more intense around the time of the Job Fair, but this is a year-round process at our probation office," says Mrs. Albert.  In fact, probation officers, support staff, deputy chiefs and the Chief US Probation Officer all contribute to the effort.  Belinda Ashley, the Chief US Probation Officer in Pittsburgh, says, "Helping ex-offenders rebuild their lives is such an important part of what we do at probation. There is a positive impact on families and communities every time we help one of our people reach success."

Employers will pack the courthouse on April 29th because they, too, benefit from the event.  Each year multiple hires are made.  Local businesses have found US Probation's Job Fair and Workforce Development Program to be a great source for talented workers.

US Probation is extending the time for employers to register to participate.  Contact Jessica at 412-395-6907 ext. 5027 to register today!