President Biden recently declared this past April to be Second Chance Month as it is estimated that 1 in 3 American adults have a criminal record, which ultimately limits their access to education, jobs, housing, and other necessities needed to reach their potential.
For over 40 years, Iowa-based Frontier Co-op has been thriving on the business model of doing good. From philanthropic pursuits to grants to impact sourcing, helping the community is what matters to the Co-op and its brands Simply Organic and Aura Cacia.
Since 2018, Frontier Co-op has hired 40 employees from their local partnerships with second chance organizations Returning Citizens Program and Second Change Program. To hold themselves accountable and to create better lives for those who need a hand, Frontier Co-op recognized the importance of adopting fair chance hiring practices to ensure skilled, prospective candidates are not disqualified from hiring considerations. In 2019, Frontier Co-op partnered with Iowa’s Sixth Judicial District Department of Correctional Services and One City United to ensure that their internal policies are reflective of this fair chance hiring standard and to help identify individuals returning to society who are just looking for a second chance, ultimately bringing them into their apprenticeship program.
The partnership with Returning Citizens Program ensures citizens receive job-based training as they transition out of the system. Michael Willoughby, a full-time employee with Frontier Co-op for over 3 years, came highly recommended from the program. Willoughby was the first Frontier Co-op apprentice who was hired as a full-time employee and has exceeded expectations landing him a promotion within two months of his hire date. He has now been with the company for more than 3 years, and his story can be seen HERE.
Since the company has adapted fair hiring practices, the results have been enriching and gratifying but have also come with its set of challenges. When an inmate gets out, they often need to meet with their probation officer up to 3 times in the first month – however, many do not have their license or a car, nor are they able to take PTO at the start of a new job. To help alleviate their employees of these burdens, Frontier Co-op has implemented free bus routes for them and also works with them to ensure they are granted required days off to meet with their officers.
If you are interested in speaking with CEO Tony Beddard, Michael Willoughby, or Frontier Co-op’s HR team, they would be happy to share more details about their process. They are deeply passionate about promoting these second chance programs and encouraging more companies to take on the role of mentoring people who deserve a second chance.
