Q: I have been without a job now for 18 months, partly because I was pregnant. I live in Florida and I have a misdemeanor for possession of Marijuana that I received in June 2008. I received the charge because I had someone in my car that lied to the police about the marijuana, and because it was my car, I got the charge not them.
I am currently enrolled in an Associate Degree program that I eventually want to turn into a Bachelor’s Degree for Teaching. Florida law says that as long as the charge has been on my record for 5 years, I can get a state license. And I am glad for that, but my problem is getting a company to give me a chance to work right now.
I am a single mother and I need to be able to support my son. If you can provide any help, that would greatly appreciated.
Sincerely, Heather
Ex-offender mom can’t get a job
A: Hello Heather,
Your inability to secure employment may be as much akin to these tough economic times as it is you being an ex-offender. I speak to many people in your same situation. I am assuming that you had of still have a probation officer. Contact your officer and inquire if he or she has any insight to offer. Often probation officers know of employers that are known to give an ex-offender a chance.
Also I suggest contacting elected officials in your area and ask for help. Express your desire to be employed and once again become a productive member of society. Elected officials have staff members that answer letters and respond to inquiries from citizens. Officials that could offer assistance are: Mayors, Council Members, Commissioners, Aldermen, Board Members, Assemblymen, and Judges.
Never ask for a job bust ask for suggestions about where to look. You may be pleasantly surprised by the amount of assistance you get.
I would apply for every job you feel qualified for. The more applications you submit, the greater your opportunities for interviews where you can explain your situation and what you have done to put it behind you.
You may also get a few ideas from the video below.
Where can an ex-offenders find a job
I hope this helps.
Are you an ex-offender who has a question about finding a job with a criminal record? You could have your question answered right here. Email your question to: BelievePublications@comcast.net.
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