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It’s Saturday April 25, here is what’s in your unincorporated communities newsletter: Latest on Second Chance Hiring Month, Metro D-Line is Opening May 8, Addressing Homeless Update, Nominate a Local Leader for Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Month, Job Opportunities, Community Events, and More.
Dear Neighbor,
“Each of us is more than the worst thing we’ve ever done.” This powerful quote comes from the visionary lawyer, author, and justice advocate Bryan Stevenson, founder of the Equal Justice Initiative, a nonprofit that challenges injustice in the legal system.
Stevenson’s words from his book Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption, capture the heart of Fair Chance Hiring—the belief that once someone has served their time and returns to their community, they deserve a fair opportunity to be considered for jobs they are applying for.
Since California’s Fair Chance Act went into effect in 2018, Los Angeles County has continued to build on its commitment to expanding access to opportunities that benefit workers, employers, and communities. In 2024, the Board approved a motion I co-authored with Supervisor Hilda Solis to establish the Fair Chance Employer Ordinance, providing additional rights, protections, and enforcement mechanisms for individuals with a history in the justice system seeking employment with businesses that have five or more employees in unincorporated Los Angeles County.
As we recognize Second Chance Hiring month this April, the County’s Department of Economic Opportunity celebrated more than 2,500 justice-impacted individuals hired by over 1,000 employers since it first launched its Fair Chance Hiring Campaign.
1-in-3 Americans have been involved in the justice system. This makes Fair Chance Hiring not just a necessity for our family, friends, and neighbors, but also a proven strategy for reducing recidivism, strengthening our workforce, and safeguarding the well-being of our communities.
For upcoming Second Chance Hiring Month events click here and for additional resources for both employers and job seekers visit: https://opportunity.lacounty.gov/fair-chance-hiring-campaign/
Sincerely,
Holly J. Mitchell
Supervisor, Second District
A key part of helping residents experiencing homelessness get on the path toward permanent housing is ensuring ongoing access to essential support and services. This week our office joined the County’s Service Connection Day in our Harbor Gateway community, offering a one-stop shop for residents to sign up for services including employment support, health care, and case management. Over 100 people attended.
Thank you to South Bay Coalition to End Homelessness and all the participating organizations along with the elected leaders that joined us, including LA Councilman Tim McOsker, Senator Mike Gipson, and Mayor Tasha Cerda.
Check out a short clip here of Team Mitchell on-the-ground sharing resources.
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