From Hope to Hired: Who We Are and Why We Exist
Learn how HopeAndHire was built from the ground up to close gaps in second-chance employment through innovation and community trust.
Our Mission
HopeAndHire is a workforce readiness platform designed to empower second-chance individuals—specifically, formerly incarcerated job seekers—through structured support, meaningful employment opportunities, and community-driven engagement. We connect vetted candidates with volunteers, employers, and reentry-focused organizations to reduce recidivism and rebuild lives through work.
Our Story
HopeAndHire is a founder-led, mission-driven initiative with a clear operational goal: to turn hope into hired. Many well-meaning programs lacked operational efficiency, effective recruiter input, or employer alignment. HopeAndHire was born out of that frustration. Drawing inspiration from proven startup models—gamification and crowdsourcing—and informed by direct experience supporting second-chance talent, the platform was built from the ground up to connect the dots between readiness, referrals, and results.
Our Approach
We operate through referral and vetting. Job seekers can’t self-enroll; they’re referred by trusted organizations, case managers, or probation officers. This helps ensure safety, eligibility, and support for volunteers. Volunteers—primarily recruiters, HR professionals, and career coaches—utilize AI-enhanced tools to assist with resume and cover letter writing, as well as interview preparation. Employers benefit from access to pre-screened candidates and support for second-chance hiring incentives.
Our Values
Dignity First: Everyone deserves to be treated with respect, regardless of background.
Accountability: We prioritize follow-through, integrity, and high standards.
Community-Driven: We succeed only when job seekers, volunteers, organizations, and employers are working together.
No-Waste Model: Every volunteer hour and dollar spent must move someone closer to employment.
Leadership
Ken
Executive Director
Ken is a seasoned union leader with over 10 years of experience in workforce development. He rebuilt a struggling union into a powerful force and has led successful nonprofit efforts to expand job opportunities for underserved communities.
Mark
Talent Strategist
Mark is a veteran recruiter who believes the focus should be on the people being served, not those doing the serving. His experience spans startups, social impact hiring, and volunteer mentoring.
Terry
Volunteer Program Manager
Terry, a military veteran and community advocate, coordinates our volunteer program to ensure that job seekers receive compassionate and practical support. He is dedicated to public safety and helping others build better futures.