At the re-launch event of LA County’s Fair Chance Hiring Initiative, we unveiled an art installation by photographer Brandon Tauszik with portraits of several Los Angeles system-impacted individuals.
“I know that I can do it, but having someone believe in you, invest in you, or give you that opportunity is what's difficult.”
- Carlos Sanchez
Every year, more than 60,000 individuals return from incarceration in LA County, looking to start anew. This is the story ofCarlos Sanchez, Owner, C&A Simplified Remodeling who’s been home for 2 ½ years.
Carlos Sanchez dreams of expanding his construction company to employ and support others like him who have been impacted by the system. Carlos is building a company that he hopes will feel like a family. He will get to know his employees and their loved ones, offer counseling when needed and make sure his team’s health and success are a priority.
Carlos thinks back to when he was a teenager, working with his stepfather and learning how to use tools. While he was incarcerated, he worked on these skills, learning about carpentry, electrical and maintenance work. With help from his mother, he was also able to study business and get his degree while inside, and after getting out, he used these skills to apply for jobs. Two years later, he began developing his own business and is now expanding. Carlos encourages employers to hire more system-impacted individuals because he knows they aren’t just there to complete a 9–5 work day. “There's always something bigger than that. And we know that,” he says. His advice for those looking for work: “Never give up and be tenacious in whatever you're pursuing.”
Courtesy of TaskForce - Photo by Brandon Tauszik
Don't miss out on hiring incredible “ready to work” fair-chance employees like Carlos–who are waiting to contribute to your company's success. Join the LA County Fair Chance Hiring Initiative and become a pledged LA County Fair Chance Hiring employer today!
*Portraits in this post were taken by Brandon Tauszik, with stories compiled by Alisha Jucevik.
Contributors
Brian Stewart, MPP, MDR
Manager, Stakeholder Engagement
LeadersUp
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