What it is:

A campaign started in 2004 to dispel stereotypes created about people with a history of conviction. It called for employers to choose candidates based on skill and qualification, not on past convictions. Ban the Box advocates for the removal of the question about past convictions on job applications so that people with records have a fair chance at employment.

“Fair chance policies benefit communities, businesses, and the economy,” says Ashley Huffstetler Campbell, Director, Blanchard Community Law Clinic of Campbell University School of Law and former StepUp board chair.

Why it’s important:

Job and housing discrimination are major barriers to employment and stability. This movement aims to change that.

What now:

Now, most states have removed the check box asking applicants whether they have a criminal record. In November, North Carolina will join that list due to an executive order signed by Gov. Roy Cooper in August.

Check out this fact sheet about becoming a fair chance employer.  

Other sources: www.bantheboxcampaign.org - visit their page for more info.

Real World, StepUp's program for young adults ages 16-21, is following strategies to stay motivated and focused on goals during the pandemic. They are also exploring different topics weekly. In the past month, Sharlene Provilus of Write Speak Inspire led sessions about Spoken Word. The participants are excited to explore the culinary arts next, as Chef Carmen will teach the group how to prepare quick, nutritious meals. Cooking demonstrations will allow our college freshmen and young adults to get comfortable in the kitchen.

The Children’s Program has focused on preparing all of the Step 2/Life Skills participants and recent graduate families for the school year, whether it's beginning virtually or in person. We made sure every child had a backpack, school supplies and healthy snacks to start the year off right!

Thanks to Vintage Church and our Amazon Wish List shoppers for equipping our children for the new school year.