Our primary goal is to advocate for individuals returning to their communities from incarceration or with non-incarceration infractions that produce barriers to stable or full-time employment.
How do we do this?
The FreshStart Employment Program is intended to serve with integrity, empathy, ethics, excellence, equity. FreshStart Employment Staff: will work with multiple City departments to create an inventory of City job opportunities available exclusively for FreshStart Employment clients. This curated list includes, a varied set of opportunities, tailored to different skills, interests and abilities, and generally includes entry level positions with career growth potential. FreshStart Employment also supports the client throughout the application and interview process, before the process handoff to Human Resources for new hire onboarding. To prevent background checks from becoming a barrier, the City of Dallas has adjusted its background check process for FreshStart Employment clients, who have completed all eligibility, readiness and training requirements
In collaboration with community partners and advocates, the FreshStart Employment Program will ensure participants are supported in coordinated programs and training (case management, budgeting skills, job skills training and soft skills, etc.), including housing, and other comprehensive services.
Book an online appointment with Marcus Stewart, click here.
Note: Attending FreshStart events does not guarantee employment, and program eligibility does not guarantee employment
Requirements for Participating in the Program
The initial step to pre-determine program eligibility is to complete and submit the online pre-eligibility form.
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Considered by pre-eligibility determination
- Released from incarceration a minimum of “upon release” to six (6) months ago
- Have attended or agree to attend workforce development training and/or a job readiness workshop
- Apply via the City of Dallas Employment site for “FreshStart” tagged positions
- Must be coachable and willing to learn
