REFORM Alliance and Jay-Z’s Roc Nation joined forces Friday, Oct. 18, 2024, by hosting a job fair in Richmond, VA, that connected over 2,000 job seekers with more than 1,500 open positions.
The free event focused on removing employment barriers for individuals impacted by the criminal justice system, particularly those on probation or parole, according to a press release.
Participants had access to a diverse range of 36 employers, including major national brands like Amazon, Starbucks, and Foot Locker, alongside local businesses from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. The job fair also featured numerous state and local government agencies, such as the Virginia Department of Corrections, the Virginia Department of Transportation, Virginia State University, and the City of Richmond.
Jessica S., who was recently released from incarceration, interviewed with both Amazon and Foot Locker and received invitations for second-round interviews.
“It’s been a struggle to find work since I came home, but this was an incredible event – one of the best things I’ve done,” she shared. “Since my release in August, I’ve been actively looking for a job and struggled to get hired. I was amazed to see so many employers ready to give opportunities to formerly incarcerated people here. My journey hasn’t been easy, especially having been recently incarcerated and on probation, but I’m determined to show employers that I’m ready for a fresh start. This opportunity means everything to me. I’m looking forward to staying involved with REFORM and its coalition in Virginia.”
Job seekers could interview on-site and receive valuable reentry support services, including professional attire, barber or hairdresser services, makeup, resume reviews, and interview preparation. Reed Smith law firm provided expungement education and services, with assistance from law students at the University of Virginia and community organization Nolef Turns Inc. Thirteen local organizations offered additional support to help job seekers confidently approach potential employers.
Dania Diaz, Roc Nation’s managing director of philanthropy, highlighted the significance of the company’s partnership with REFORM in creating real opportunities for those historically excluded from the workforce.
“Roc Nation is dedicated to amplifying voices that have been silenced and driving positive change in communities that need it most,” she stated. She emphasized that the event was about “empowering individuals to reclaim their futures and build a better tomorrow,” serving as “a testament to the power of second chances and the potential within every person when barriers are removed.”
Virginia is facing a significant workforce shortage, with nearly twice as many open positions as available workers, according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. The job fair presented a unique answer to the problem by matching untapped talent — many shut out of the workforce due to criminal records — with employers embracing second-chance hiring practices.
With approximately 80 million Americans living with a criminal record and many on probation earning less than $20,000 annually, the unemployment rate for formerly incarcerated individuals remains significantly high, hovering around 27%, per the press release.
Roc Nation and REFORM Alliance are dedicated to addressing these challenges. Founded by Jay-Z, Robert F. Smith, and others, REFORM Alliance also counts Meek Mill and Michael Rubin as board co-chairs.
Jessica Jackson, REFORM’s CEO, highlighted the importance of increasing access to employment opportunities.
“Increasing access to employment opportunities is key to building safe, thriving communities,” she said. “REFORM is proud to be a part of the community here in Virginia and open doors for justice-impacted individuals. When we invest in people, especially those who have faced barriers due to probation, parole, or a criminal record, we strengthen not just individual lives but entire communities. Every job secured today is a step towards breaking the cycle of recidivism and creating more just and safe communities.”
