Philly Leader

The Fair Chance Hiring Initiative supports local businesses with hiring Philadelphia job seekers that are justice-impacted and provides financial incentives to businesses in the form of wage reimbursements and employment retention grants.

In the fall of 2020, the Department of Commerce, Workforce Solutions team redesigned the Fair Chance Hiring Initiative (FCHI) with additional benefits for current employers and the eligible employees they hire. As an added benefit, employers receive a one-time $500 employment retention grant for each eligible employee retained during the 180-calendar days hiring period. Eligible employees also would receive a one-time, taxable $1,000 employment retention grant for completing the new hire period.  

Through FCHI, the City aims to promote economic opportunity and workforce success by providing financial incentives to businesses and Philadelphia residents.  Hear from Linda Fortune, President of ACAM Management, a business participating in FCHI about what the program means to them. Hear as well from David Kelly, an employee hired through the Fair Chance Hiring Initiative. 

Program impact on business owners 

Tell us a little bit about your business. What services does your business provide? 

Linda Fortune (LF): Through the Department of Commerce’s PHL Taking Care of Business Clean Corridors Program, ACAM Management contracts with Passyunk Avenue Revitalization Corporation (PARC) in South Philadelphia for regular cleaning in South Broad Street, as well as Washington and Snyder Avenues.  ACAM Management also provides indoor and outdoor services including sweeping, sanitation needs, and janitorial services on commercial corridors and neighborhoods in Philadelphia. Our work also encompasses trash removal, light landscaping, power washing, graffiti removal, and event cleaning.  

How many people does your business employ?  

LF: ACAM currently employs around 30 people. Hiring returning citizens is at the center of our hearts in addition to ensuring Philadelphia is clean.  

When did your business join FCHI and why?  

LF: ACAM joined FCHI as an employer partner in August 2021. ACAM joined the program because we wanted to utilize the opportunity that the Fair Chance Hiring Initiative offered and maximize our ability to hire more justice impacted individuals.  

How does FCHI support your business?  

LF: Through the financial support from FCHI, we can attract more individuals to our business. We have a passion for employing individuals who want a second chance after re-entry.  

Why do you think fair chance hiring is important?  

LF: Fair chance hiring is important and, in my opinion, vital, because it provides a lifeline for businesses to continue hiring justice impacted individuals.  

What is your advice for other employers looking to implement fair chance hiring practices?  

LF: For employers who are looking to be a part of this incredible program my advice to them would be, to be patient and willing to make a difference in the life of people looking for a hand up and not a handout. 

These past few years have been difficult for everyone. How do you feel inspired?  

LF: The past few years have been difficult, but we are all in it together. I believe the last couple of years showed me the resiliency of people and our ability to one step at a time, build back. This inspires me every day. 

Program impact on employees 

What are your goals and how does your current employment help you reach them? 

David Kelly (DK): I am dedicated to growing as a law-abiding citizen. The job with ACAM Management helps to keep me focused and out of trouble. 

How can employers support individuals returning from incarceration and those impacted by the justice system? 

DK: Employers can help support by hiring them and believing in their capacity to do the work. ACAM gave me structure and made me a part of a group that is doing the right thing.  

What would you want other employees to know about joining FCHI? 

DK: My advice to anyone looking to be employed by an FCHI employer is to be on time, work hard, and stay useful to the company.  

What is the impact of the $1,000 grant incentive in your life? 

DK: I just got married and I used the grant money for my wedding.  

What keeps you motivated? 

DK: My wife, my marriage, and my freedom keep me motivated.  

Original source can be found here.