For returning citizens, employment is one of the most important factors in successful reintegration.
For employers, hiring fairly is not only the right thing to do — it is also good business.
Research and real-world experience continue to show that employees who are given a second chance are often highly motivated, loyal, and committed to proving themselves.
At Optimal Bridges in Brockton, MA, we work with local employers who believe in fair chance hiring and understand the value of opening doors to qualified candidates.
What Is Fair Chance Hiring?
Fair chance hiring means evaluating people based on their skills, experience, and potential first, rather than automatically rejecting them because of criminal history.
It gives candidates the opportunity to show who they are today before a background check becomes a barrier.
In Massachusetts, most employers cannot ask about criminal history on the initial written job application under the state’s “Ban the Box” protections.
This law applies broadly and encourages employers to focus on qualifications first.
While public employers are specifically covered, many private employers are also voluntarily adopting fair chance hiring practices.
The Business Case for Fair Chance Hiring
Fair chance hiring offers clear benefits for employers.
Loyalty and Retention
Employees who receive a genuine second chance often show strong loyalty and higher retention, helping reduce recruitment and training costs.
Motivation
People who are given an opportunity after facing barriers frequently bring exceptional dedication and work ethic.
Tax Incentives
The federal Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) may provide tax benefits to employers who hire individuals from eligible groups, including some people with felony convictions.
Access to Talent
In today’s labor market, fair chance hiring opens access to a broader pool of capable and motivated candidates.
How Optimal Bridges Can Help
Optimal Bridges works directly with employers in the greater Brockton area who are open to hiring returning citizens.
We help prepare residents for employment through:
- Resume support
- Interview preparation
- Employment readiness coaching
- Workplace communication skills
- Ongoing support after placement
We can also help employers understand:
- CORI and background check laws
- Fair hiring best practices
- Individualized candidate assessments
- Policies that align with Massachusetts law
Our goal is to connect businesses with motivated, ready-to-work candidates who are supported and prepared for success.
Partner With Optimal Bridges
If your business is interested in becoming a fair chance employer, Optimal Bridges can help.
Visit www.optimalbridges.com to learn more about our employer partnership program and how we can connect your organization with qualified returning citizens in Brockton, MA.
