Barriers to Employment
In a competitive job market, a significant number of job seekers and low-wage workers in Illinois face additional barriers to employment. Individuals with these barriers — the homeless, high school dropouts, public benefits recipients, ex-offenders, limited English speakers, and the disabled —have an even more difficult time finding employment than the typical job seeker.
Often employers are reluctant to hire someone with these challenges, either because they perceive that person as an increased risk or because they are not aware of the incentives for employers who hire employees with barriers to employment. Additionally, the workforce development system does not have the resources to adequately serve job seekers with barriers to employment.
CJC believes that...Illinois must have a vision and provide a continuum of workforce development services to ensure that everyone has access to employment services, jobs and career advancement opportunities. Even those with limited literacy, English proficiency, and work experience. Those with disabilities, criminal records, and dead-end jobs. Those without transportation, childcare, and work credentials. Everyone has the right to work.
That's why we...Work to shape policy and service provision in such a way that individuals with barriers to employment can access the services they need to find and retain jobs that pay family supporting wages.
