Rutgers Success Program Prepares Justice-Impacted Residents for Workforce Re-Entry

Are you looking for skilled, dedicated talent to fill vacant roles at your company? Have you considered hiring qualified individuals with criminal records?
 
A 2021 study by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) reveals some compelling insights:
 

• 81% of business leaders and 85% of HR professionals report that workers with criminal records perform their jobs as well as or better than those without criminal records.

 

• 4 in 5 HR professionals (81%) believe the quality of hire of workers with criminal records is equal to or better than those without—an increase from 67% in 2018.

 

• 81% of HR professionals say the cost-per-hire of workers with criminal records is comparable to or lower than hiring those without records.

 

• 73% of business leaders and 75% of HR professionals say workers with criminal records are just as or more dependable than their counterparts.

 
At the Rutgers Employment Success Program (RESP), we are proud to collaborate with the New Jersey Department of Labor on a program that prepares justice-impacted individuals to re-enter the workforce with the skills and training needed to succeed. Our program, Job Opportunities for Building Success (JOBS), is focused on supporting adults from South Jersey who are returning home from correctional facilities. We help them secure sustainable, career-oriented jobs and build critical work skills. Currently, we have nearly 200 individuals in our program who are eager to find meaningful employment.
 
Here’s how we support our JOBS participants:
 

• Assistance with ID obtainment

 

• Subsidies for training and postsecondary education

 

• Coverage for transportation costs

 

• Work supplies to ensure readiness for the job

 

• Grooming essentials and wellness kits to maintain a professional appearance

 

• Development of soft skills that are vital for workplace success

 
This work isn’t charity—it’s an investment in talent. Many of our participants have a wealth of work experience and diverse skill sets that could add tremendous value to your company.
 
If you have job openings and are interested in interviewing some of our candidates, please reach out to Kristen Thornton, RESP Program Manager, at K.Thornton@Rutgers.edu. Additionally, if your company is new to hiring talent with criminal records, we offer expert guidance on implementing fair chance hiring practices. We are here to support you every step of the way.
 
Unlock the potential of untapped talent. Let’s work together to build a stronger, more inclusive workforce in Cumberland County.