Beech Tree News Network

Goodwill has been helping to break the barriers associated with receiving employment for those that have a criminal record.

Goodwill Industries of Kentucky has partnered with the South Central Workforce Board and several community and state organizations to hold “expungement clinics” throughout the state. These events serve as an opportunity for those with a criminal history to have their records cleaned and receive a fresh start.

A clinic was held at the Butler County Cooperative Extension Service building from 10a.m.  – 2 p.m. and was open to the public. The event allowed anyone with criminal offenses the opportunity to attend and learn about their possible opportunities and options for expungement and employment.  

“We understand the barrier that it causes for folks that are trying to get jobs or get better jobs…we understand why this is so important,” said T.J. Shockley-Hunt, Regional Manager of Career Services for Goodwill Industries.

Attendees were able to meet with an attorney from the Kentucky Department of Public Advocacy and Kentucky Legal Aid to have their records reviewed and learn if they were eligible for expungement. Participants were then able to meet with members and representatives from the other organizations present to further discuss and explore their options. A presentation was given to further explain what the process would entail if the attendees were approved and what the next necessary steps would be.

For those not eligible for expungement, they were still provided with options and had opportunities to learn about employment due to the large amount of second chance employers that Goodwill is associated with.

“If they come and find out they are not eligible, that doesn’t mean that we can’t help them,” Shockley-Hunt said.

Other supportive services were also provided by Goodwill and South-Central Workforce Career Coaches that were present to provide insight. Community partners were there as well to offer health resources and more.

All services within the clinic were free of charge.

Partners in accordance with Goodwill Industries included: Kentucky Career Center, Southern Kentucky Reentry Council, Legal Aid Society and Kentucky Department of Corrections.

Goodwill Industries currently serves 103 counties in Kentucky and aims to help those in need change their circumstances. Goodwill offers multiple job training programs and services for anyone looking for employment.

For more information, call (270) 781-4930 or visit www.goodwillky.org.