Finding work with a criminal record
Finding a job isn’t always easy, especially if you have just been released from prison. In fact, for two out of three people, the existence of a criminal record has a negative impact on employment.
Created in 1985, La Boussole, YMCA’s employment service program, offers free, personalized services to adults with a criminal record to help them find a job or go back to school.
The main services provided are:
- job search preparation (writing a CV and cover letters, interview techniques, etc.);
- information about careers and schools;
- one-on-one and group meetings;
- access to various tools (computers, internet, telephones, newspapers and fax machines).
Other benefits include:
- free access to the fitness centre (limited);
- access to many other community reintegration services.
Each year, La Boussole contributes to the social reintegration of hundreds of inmates and individuals with a criminal record. In doing so, it helps reduce recidivism rates and other social costs.
Watch a video about the program (French only).
This program is offered at the Downtown YMCA.
La Boussole provides similar services at the Montréal detention centre (Bordeaux) to help inmates set a professional goal before they leave prison. This way, they can find work, start a business or pursue their studies as soon as they are released.
Partners:
Emploi Québec