GETTING TALENT BACK TO WORK: 

eMPLOYING EX-OFFENDERS

CATHERINE MCLAUGHLIN, JD, MBA

DIRECTOR, PARTNERS RE-ENTRY PROGRAM

Each year in the United States, nearly 700,000 men and women are released from prison and re-enter society, where many want to find jobs. Yet despite the growing need among U.S. employers for workers, applicants with a criminal record often face huge obstacles to achieving gainful employment. As the nation reaches nearly full employment, business leaders and human resources professionals are considering this previously overlooked population for the first time as a source for workers. In fact, job applicants with criminal records are proving to be a viable workplace solution for many organizations. Many ex-offenders are willing to start in minimum wage jobs. Some of them have skilled technical or professional experience. Explore the reasons why you should consider hiring an ex-offender and learn how the Partner Re-Entry Center works with employers by referring qualified applicants, including those with Native or minority preference, and assisting employers with the prescreening process. Learn about the fidelity bonding program and the Work Opportunity Tax Credit. Awareness about the realities of reentry and the vital role of gainful employment in reducing recidivism is key to making our state safer AND filling those job openings! The Getting Talent Back to Work initiative is led by SHRM to end outdated, non-inclusive hiring practices. In response to the First Step Act becoming law, the movement is the next step to getting those with criminal histories a fair chance at employment.

PRISONER RE-ENTRY WALK - Friday, May 24, 8:30-11:30 am

Join us on a "Reentry Walk" and learn more about the process of being released into the community from jail. Meet a group of HR professionals at the Anchorage Jail's parking lot by the buses at 8:30 am. We'll finish at Bean's Cafe around 11:30 am. 

No additional cost. Just RSVP when you register and you can also bring guests even if they don't participate in the luncheon!

CATHLEEN N. MCLAUGHLIN, JD/MBA

Cathleen is the Director of the Partners Re-Entry Center. She, along with a very passionate group of individuals who are committed to reducing recidivism in the State of Alaska, advocate for people and programs that bridge the gap between community and re-entrants. Cathleen speaks to groups and writes about re-entry throughout the State of Alaska and the United States. Her presentations focus on the challenges and opportunities individuals and communities need to recognize and to collaborate on in meaningful ways to reduce recidivism