Project #HIRED aims to connect ex-cons with employers

CHICAGO — A former gang member who in recent years has dedicated his life to helping cut the recidivism rate and assist men and women reacclimate to society hosted a job fair Friday.

The event with recruiters and representatives from colleges and corporations was open to anyone but geared toward citizens with criminal pasts who are determined to stay on the right path. The “Project #HIRED Second Chance Job Fair” event at the organization known as ULON — United Legion One Nation — was held at 7401 South Cottage Grove Avenue from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

“There’s been success each year, and what we do is we offer people a way to look at being … not just productive in society but an asset to society. Build up their self-esteem. Get them something where they can start their day at 8 in the morning and work starting at 9 to 5, just like everybody else,” said ULON founder and CEO Peter Keller.

Keller has previously served time and has become passionate about offering access to opportunities to people with similar pasts.

Among those seeking jobs Friday was Vernon Chapman who, like many others who visited, have a renewed sense of pride and are eager to find jobs after serving time behind bars. Chapman has been home since April after spending 14 years in federal prison for a drug crime.

“I mean, we did wrong, but I think we should get a chance to get our life together, and you know, have a good opportunity to contribute to the damage that we done and fix things,” he told WGN.

In addition to hiring, BMO Bank was on hand to offer financial literary services for those re-entering the workforce.

ULON will host another job fair on Dec. 13. Check ulonworks.life/ for the latest information.

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