Rockville, MD – In a climate where job security is increasingly uncertain and equity in hiring remains a pressing concern, WorkSource Montgomery is amplifying its commitment to second chances.
On Thursday, April 3, 2025, WSM’s Dual Track Re-Entry Program (DTR) hosted the 2nd Annual Fair Chance Employment Symposium and Job Fair, an event that underscored the critical need for inclusive hiring practices—particularly for justice-impacted individuals seeking a fresh start. Held in recognition of Second Chance Month, the symposium brought together over 250 jobseekers and more than 40 employers and resource partners committed to fair chance hiring and economic equity.
The initiative comes at a pivotal time. With recent federal budget cuts prompting layoffs across sectors and returning citizens competing in an already saturated job market, events like this are more than symbolic gestures—they are essential bridges to stability and self-sufficiency. In Maryland, where Ban the Box legislation has helped reduce initial hiring discrimination, this gathering represents a vital next step: facilitating face-to-face connections between employers and justice-impacted jobseekers ready to contribute.
The day was filled with powerful moments, chief among them a proclamation from Councilmember Marilyn Balcombe (District 2) officially recognizing April as Second Chance Month in Montgomery County—a first for the county. While Second Chance Month has been recognized at the federal level in recent years, 2025 marks the first time it has been formally acknowledged at both the state and county levels in Maryland. In addition to the county proclamation, WorkSource Montgomery also received a statewide proclamation from Governor Wes Moore, further cementing the importance of second chances across all levels of leadership. In addition to the countywide recognition, a proclamation was also awarded to Upling—an innovative cannabis delivery platform known for its commitment to fair chance hiring and “community-driven tech.” The acknowledgment served as a powerful reminder of the region’s dedication to inclusive workforce development. “This recognition represents far more than a certificate. It validates our mission of creating meaningful opportunities for returning citizens and our commitment to building a more inclusive workforce” reiterated by Upling founder and CEO, Colin Fraser. Fraser joined WSM’s Board of Directors in late 2024 and is a member of the WSM Reentry Advisory Committee – a first in the state.
Another key moment came with the presentation of the Commitment to Reentry Award to Interfaith Works, a nonprofit serving over 35,000 Montgomery County residents each year with emergency shelter, housing support, essential needs, and employment services. The award recognized Interfaith Works’ continued leadership in helping justice-involved individuals access critical resources as they reenter the community.
Adding a deeply personal layer to the event was James LeBlanc, WSM’s Director of Community Impact and author, who delivered a heartfelt keynote detailing his own reentry journey. His testimony—a story of resilience, redemption, and renewed purpose—captivated attendees and brought the room to a standstill. Also in attendance was Ben Stevenson, Director of the Department of Correction and Rehabilitation (DOCR), who emphasized the value of collaborative support in creating real second chances.
After the event, Ben Stevenson spoke with WSM’s communications team about the significance of supporting returning citizens.
“It’s very important for us to acknowledge the many, many returning citizens coming out of our correctional institutions who have made amends and are taking positive steps forward,” Stevenson shared. “They are seeking work in our communities—and they can and will be, if given the opportunity, valuable members of our community.”
He continued by posing a reflective question to the public: “How do you want those that are returning back to the community?” Stevenson emphasized the role of collective responsibility and collaboration, stating, “Our department, with help from employers and WorkSource Montgomery, is taking on these challenges to help our community—and those returning—be in a better place.”
The symposium’s success was bolstered by community partners and their generous support:
- Arcade Barber Shop, for providing 30 complimentary haircuts to help clients prepare for the job fair
- Wegmans Food Markets, for supplying breakfast for our employers and partners
- Manna Food Center, for donating take-home food packages for participants
- Montgomery College, for generously hosting the event
As jobseekers, advocates, and employers came together in one space, the message was clear: second chances aren’t just possible – they’re powerful. Through events like this, WSM continues to lead the way in building a more inclusive and resilient workforce, one opportunity at a time.
For more information or to get involved in WSM’s reentry efforts, contact the DTR team at ReEntryServices@worksourcemontgomery.com.
