(BOP) - Each year, the Bureau of Prisons hosts mock job fairs and resource fairs for inmates at institutions all around the country. Mock job fairs provide inmates with real-life like opportunities to practice their job seeking skills. They also allow employers the opportunity to learn about the advantages of hiring ex-offenders. Most institutions require that inmates complete a job skills class prior to participating in a mock job fair. This requirement improves the success of the event and increases the value of the experience for participating inmates.
During a mock job fair, volunteers conduct mock interviews of inmates. After the "interview" the inmates are provided feedback on their performance and given constructive criticism on ways to improve. Representatives from residential reentry centers, federal and state employment agencies, and federal probation offices often participate in the fairs and provide useful information to the inmates.
Motor Vehicle Administration offices, and representatives from veterans' services organizations, the Social Security Administration and other government agencies, also attend and provide valuable information regarding services to assist inmates with their reentry preparations.
Here are a few examples of how institutions use mock job fairs and resource fairs to help inmates prepare for reentry:
FCI Butner
After mock interviews, local business representatives awarded "Golden Tickets" to 14 inmates, promising interviews upon their release.
The "Golden Tickets" create potential employment opportunities for inmates when they transition back into the community.
MCFP Springfield
During a resource fair, inmates were able to complete applications for copies of birth certificates and replacement social security cards,
sign up for vocational and apprenticeship programs offered at the institution, and learn about services provided by various agencies and
local businesses to assist ex-offenders.
FCI Tucson
At a resource fair, community representatives provided inmates with information about entrepreneurship programs targeted for the ex-offender
population, the impact of new healthcare laws, and a family reunification program. Local bank representatives offered the inmates information
and applications for opening savings accounts.