Justice at work starts here

Employment Advocacy for Justice-Impacted Workers

We believe employment is more than just a job—it’s a foundation for stability, dignity, and growth. Our advocacy is centered on restoring opportunities and breaking cycles of incarceration through meaningful employment. Our services are rooted in dignity, equity, and second chances—because every individual deserves the opportunity to thrive. Clients who receive employment advocacy services overcome work challenges at 2.5x the rate of the local average.

Talk to an Advocate

Key Target Areas

"Some of The Hardest Work is Being Out of Work"

Fair Employment

Tailored advocacy services for individuals who face challenges in the job search due to background checks and other justice-related issues.

Certificates of Relief

Providing education and support to individuals affected by work-related collateral consequences, who are seeking relief and require proof of rehabilitation.

Microenterprise Support

Dynamic microenterprise or entrepreneurship training tracks to empower individuals who face restrictions to some professions.

Fair Chance Housing

We are committed to advocating for justice-impacted individuals by eliminating barriers and facilitating access to safe long-term housing.

Higher Education

Guidance for learners affected by the justice system throughout the college admissions process, including assistance with financial aid appeals.

Occupational Licensing

Legal assistance is available for individuals who have faced denial, suspension, or revocation of their occupational license.

WHAT WE DO?

All the services you need, in one place

We support individuals navigating the dual challenges of reentry and criminal record discrimination. Our services

are designed to break down structural  barriers, build worker power, and promote fair access to opportunity.

Know Your Rights Education

Justice-impacted workers often face stigma, misinformation, and unlawful exclusion from jobs. We provide:


  • Workshops on employment rights after incarceration, including protections under FRCA, EEOC guidance, and Ban-the-Box laws
  • Easy-to-read guides on background checks, record sealing, and workplace discrimination
  • Peer-led education sessions that center lived experience and community wisdom


Impact: Workers learn how to challenge bias, assert their rights, and access fair employment.

Legal Self-Help Tools

Navigating legal systems can be overwhelming—especially after incarceration. Our tools simplify the process:


  • Interactive guides for filing complaints about discrimination, wage theft, or retaliation
  • Templates for explaining criminal records in job applications and interviews
  • Resources for record expungement, occupational licensing, and fair chance hiring


Impact: Workers gain autonomy and clarity in pursuing justice and employment.

Representation in Appeals

When justice-impacted workers are denied benefits or face workplace violations, we provide:


  • Advocacy in unemployment insurance appeals, licensing denials, and discrimination hearings
  • Support in challenging background check inaccuracies and unfair hiring practices
  • Referrals to legal aid and reentry-focused attorneys for deeper representation


Impact: Workers are not alone—they have skilled advocates who understand their journey.

Policy Advocacy

We fight for structural change to end employment discrimination against justice-impacted people:


  • Campaigns to expand Ban-the-Box, limit background checks, and reform licensing laws
  • Coalitions with reentry, racial justice, and labor organizations
  • Research and storytelling that elevate the voices of formerly incarcerated workers


Impact: We shift policy to recognize redemption, restore opportunity, and dismantle systemic exclusion.

How it works

Answer a few simple questions and get started on your work journey!

Fill in the form

Complete the questionnaire so we can gather some basic information about you, and get a general sense of what you're looking for. 

Get a customized plan

Schedule an appointment with an advocate to identify any systemic barriers and map out a strategy to overcome those barriers.

We take action

We leverage our strong partnerships

with employers to create and nurture employment opportunities and career advancement for our ready to work clients.

Follow-up

We provide personalized follow-up support to ensure you stay on track. Our team checks in regularly, offers guidance, and connects you with resources tailored to your evolving goals.

Get Support

Get Involved

Join Our Advisory Council

Our advisory council members are individuals with lived

experience who believe in our mission.

We want to hear from you

Fill in this form below and a IEJI representative will contact you shortly with further instructions.