April 14, 2026
Silver Spring, MD – At a time when workforce stability remains uncertain and economic recovery continues across the region, WorkSource Montgomery reaffirmed its commitment to second chances through its largest fair chance hiring event to date—one that left jobseekers energized, employers encouraged, and the entire room inspired.
On Tuesday, April 8, 2026, WSM’s Dual Track Re-Entry Program (DTR) hosted the 3rd Annual Fair Chance Employment Symposium and Job Fair, held in recognition of Second Chance Month. The event welcomed 500 registered jobseekers and more than 50 employers and resource partners, all united in creating meaningful employment pathways for justice-impacted individuals seeking a fresh start.
From the moment doors opened, the energy in the room was undeniable. Jobseekers arrived dressed for success, résumés in hand, eager to introduce themselves and make lasting impressions. Employers greeted attendees with encouragement and open conversations, reflecting a shared belief that building a stronger workforce requires creating space for second chances. Throughout the day, meaningful conversations and handshakes transformed the venue into more than a job fair—it became a space filled with renewed confidence and possibility.
The initiative comes at a pivotal time. The regional workforce—disproportionately impacting the DMV area—continues to recover from mass layoffs triggered by federal budget cuts made one year ago, while also navigating widespread workforce reductions across the nation, particularly within the technology sector. For justice-impacted individuals competing in an already strained labor market, opportunities for direct employer engagement are more essential than ever.
A defining moment of the day came with the keynote address delivered by BJ Paige, whose presence brought a wave of energy and purpose to the room. Known for his signature message, “Your network is your net worth,” Paige delivered a message that deeply resonated with both jobseekers and employers alike.
During his keynote, Paige posed a thought-provoking question:
“What does a second chance look like without a first chance?”
One of the most memorable moments followed during a powerful call-and-response, when Paige challenged employers to commit to action by declaring:
“Today, I will offer a job.”
He then turned to jobseekers, encouraging them to claim their momentum:
“Today, I will find a job. Today will never be the same.”
The room echoed with voices repeating those words—an energizing moment that left many visibly motivated and ready to take the next step toward employment.
Throughout the day, employers engaged jobseekers in thoughtful conversations, sharing insight about career pathways and emphasizing the importance of building a more inclusive workforce. Jobseekers embraced the opportunity with determination, many leaving the event feeling more confident and encouraged about their future.
In an interview after the event, one jobseeker reflected on the impact of the day, sharing:
“WSM has been a real resource to me as I’ve been getting back into the workforce and I’m glad to contribute here anyway I can.”
The event also featured remarks from Marc Elrich and Will Jawando, reinforcing the county’s commitment to fair hiring practices and workforce inclusion.
Participants also benefited from a dedicated workshop led by Workplace Fairness, focused on educating justice-involved jobseekers about their employment rights and protections, equipping attendees with practical tools to advocate for themselves in the workplace.
This year’s symposium was made possible through the generous support of community partners who helped create a welcoming and resource-rich environment. Special thanks to:
• Silver Spring Civic Center, for generously hosting the event
• Workplace Fairness, for providing an empowering Know Your Rights workshop
• King’s & Priests’ Court International Ministries, for supporting the community food drive
• Wegmans Food Markets, for their continued partnership and donation
• BJ Paige, Marc Elrich, and Will Jawando, for their leadership and inspiring messages
A heartfelt thank you also goes to the dedicated Dual Track Reentry team, WSM staff volunteers, employers, resource partners, and jobseekers whose participation made this day truly remarkable.
As the day concluded, the impact was clear: what began as a workforce event became a space filled with motivation, encouragement, and real opportunity. Second chances are not just opportunities—they are investments in stronger communities and a more resilient workforce.
Stay tuned to WSM’s social media channels to hear interviews from jobseekers and employers who attended, along with a special Q&A featuring keynote speaker BJ Paige.
For more information or to get involved in WSM’s reentry efforts, contact the DTR team at ReEntryServices@worksourcemontgomery.com.
