Breaking Employment Barriers
Opening doors to work, dignity, and stability.
We help individuals overcome the real-world obstacles that stand between them and stable employment — whether it’s a criminal record, a gap in work history, or the stigma of recovery.
What We Offer
- Job-readiness coaching – Interview prep, resumes, soft skills
- Inclusive employer connections – We partner with fair-chance employers
- Background check support – Help with Live Scan fee waivers and navigating records
- Ongoing mentorship – Continued support after you get the job
- Policy advocacy – Fighting for second chances through “Ban the Box” and fair hiring
Who It's For
- Individuals in recovery
- People with criminal histories
- Anyone facing barriers to work or reentry
Why It Matters
A job isn’t just a paycheck — it’s a foundation for long-term recovery, stability, and purpose.
Ready to Work?
👉 Contact us today to get started on your path to employment.
The Most Common Barriers To Sustainable Employment
Criminal Records / Background Checks
- Employers often conduct background checks that disqualify applicants with felony or misdemeanor convictions.
- Many job applications still include the "Have you ever been convicted?" checkbox (despite “Ban the Box” efforts).
- Certain industries (e.g., healthcare, education, finance) may legally bar individuals with specific convictions.
Housing Instability / Homelessness
Lack of a permanent address or reliable transportation makes it hard to:
- Complete job applications
- Attend interviews
- Maintain consistent employment
- Shelters often have curfews that conflict with work schedules
Stigma and Discrimination
- Bias from employers toward people with a criminal record, history of addiction, or unstable living conditions
- Social judgment that affects networking and hiring decisions
Lack of Access to Documentation
- Missing or stolen IDs, Social Security cards, or work authorization documents can prevent employment entirely
- Replacing these documents can be costly or time-consuming
Limited Education or Job Training
- Many justice-impacted or homeless individuals haven’t completed high school or have limited access to vocational training
- Lack of certifications or digital literacy can block access to many jobs
Probation/Parole Restrictions
- Required meetings, drug testing, or curfews can conflict with work hours
- Some parole terms restrict travel, location, or industry of employment
Transportation Barriers
- No car, no driver’s license, or limited access to public transit
- Many job opportunities are in areas inaccessible without a vehicle
Child Support Enforcement & License Suspension
Unpaid child support can lead to:
- Driver’s license suspension
- Revocation or denial of professional/occupational licenses, including security guard cards
- Wage garnishment resulting in financial hardship that discourages job seeking
- Ineligibility for certain housing or benefits
This creates a cycle where the inability to work makes it even harder to pay what’s owed.
✅ How Awake.org Helps
Awake.org helps reduce these barriers by offering:
- Live Scan fee waivers and background check assistance
- Job readiness coaching (resumes, interview prep)
- Referrals to inclusive employers
- Peer support and advocacy
- Help obtaining vital documents
- Connections to housing, education, and mental health support and more...
We seek to provide a hand up, not a handout!
"Changing the Narrative One View At a Time."