What You'll Learn
Hiring people who were once incarcerated is a positive practice for many organizations, resulting in employees who are well-trained, loyal, and eager to work. Yet some employers do not consider hiring people with a criminal record due to fear or bias. The cost is high to individuals and our communities for not hiring from this population, since with unemployment comes increased recidivism and failure to thrive.
In collaboration with TalentFirst and the Michigan Department of Corrections, Calvin University offers a Second Chance Hiring professional development program to explore best practices, including an online course, a prison education visit, and a workshop. Our next offering will be in spring 2025. Stay tuned for details!
About the program
Focused on resources in Michigan, the Second Chance Hiring program includes:
- an online course taken alongside a cohort
- a visit to a Vocational Village at a Michigan prison, transportation included
- lunch and a workshop on Calvin's campus
Cost for participation in all aspects of the Second Chance Hiring Program: $200. TalentFirst members receive a 10% discount.
The next offering of this experience will be available in spring 2025.
Microcredential Course
Learners have two weeks to complete the online microcredential course, which takes 2–3 hours asynchronously. It covers the following topics:
• Understanding the Criminal Justice System
• Hiring Considerations
• Employability
• Accessing Supports and Services
• Creating a Flourishing Culture
Those who complete the course will receive both a digital badge and, if desired, 2.5 SHRM professional development credits.
Prison Education Visit
Following the completion of the course, gather with participants for a walk through of a prison education program in Michigan. You'll meet instructors who are teaching skilled trades to those who are within two years of release from prison and see first-hand what skills they are learning. You'll also hear from a panel of incarcerated individuals about their experiences and their dreams for when they return home from prison.
Workshop
The program culminates with a collaborative workshop to debrief with other participants, learn from employer leaders, and plan next steps. 7 SHRM professional development credits available for the workshop and the prison education visit.
Contact
Did you know?
Calvin offers a Christian liberal arts education to inmates at the Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility in Ionia, Mich. This five-year program, called the Calvin Prison Initiative (CPI), results in a bachelor of arts degree from Calvin University. CPI brings hope, dignity, and the opportunity for real accomplishment.