Arizona businesses are struggling to weather a labor shortage that's choking the state's potential for economic growth. There's a well of untapped talent seeking an opportunity to make a meaningful impact and provide for their families. We can no longer overlook the impact that could be made by those who have served their time but still carry a conviction or arrest history. 

Individuals with a history of incarceration face unemployment rates five times the national average. This is not for lack of skill or desire to work; it is most often because of the barriers to employment they face. 

On Thursday, October 5th, Arouet and our community partners are hosting the second annual Fair Chance Employment Symposium, presented by JPMorgan Chase & Co., at the Arizona Biltmore starting at 8am. We will be updating our webpage shortly but please check out last year’s page and video: https://arouetempowers.org/fairchancesymposium/

This year, the event will honor leaders – both local and national – who have made an impact in the community around fair chances and making it easier for people to become part of the workforce.