Empowering Through Employment: Jacksonville’s Third Annual Second Chance Job Fair

ONH Jacksonville Staff at the Third Annual Second Chance Job Fair

On Tuesday, April 22, 2025, Operation New Hope was proud to co-host the Third Annual Second Chance Job Fair in Jacksonville: a powerful event designed to connect job seekers with employers who believe in opportunities for all.

Held at the FSCJ Advanced Technology Center, the event was hosted by Operation New Hope, CareerSource of Northeast Florida, Florida State College at Jacksonville, and Goodwill of North Florida. United by a shared mission, the Second Chance Job Fair brought these organizations together to help individuals take the next step in their career journey, regardless of their past.

 

A Platform for Opportunity

This public job fair welcomed individuals from all backgrounds, including returning citizens reentering the community after incarceration, to connect with local employers, participate in on-site interviews, and explore job opportunities across a wide range of industries.

The event was a great success, with businesses and organizations from a wide range of sectors showing up to meet motivated job seekers ready to rebuild their lives and contribute to the workforce. Many of our valued Second Chance Employers were present, demonstrating the power and impact of inclusive hiring.

Why Second Chance Hiring Matters

Second chance employment isn’t just a compassionate practice, it’s smart business. Employers who hire individuals with a background of justice involvement often report:

  • Higher Retention Rates– According to the Second Chance Business Coalition, 85% of HR professionals and 81% of business leaders report that employees with justice involvement perform the same as or better than those without records. 
  • Stronger Loyalty & Work Ethic– A survey by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) found that 78% of managers note these employees’ resilience and grit. 
  • Access to a Broader Talent Pool– Many returning citizens bring valuable experience across a wide range of industries. With nearly one in three Americans having a criminal record, incorporating fair chance hiring practices allows companies to diversify their workforce and meet critical staffing needs. 
  • Federal Tax Credits & Bonding Programs– These programs offer employers financial incentives and security when hiring justice-impacted individuals.

 

Even beyond having a decided competitive advantage, hiring returning citizens reduces recidivism, strengthens families, and builds safer, more resilient communities. When someone is given the chance to work, earn a living wage, and grow professionally, everyone benefits.

Through Employment, We Empower

At Operation New Hope, we believe that Second Chances Matter, and employment is one of the most powerful tools in breaking the cycle of poverty and incarceration. The success of this year’s job fair is a testament to what’s possible when communities, employers, and support organizations come together to open doors of opportunity.

If you’re an employer looking to make a meaningful impact and grow your team with hardworking, motivated individuals, we invite you to become an employment partner.

Show Your Commitment to Second Chances!

Submit a Job Order Today!

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