Just A Chance (JAC)

The specific problem we are working to address within the challenge is the pervasive issue of employment discrimination and barriers to entry faced by marginalized individuals. Across communities, both locally and globally, countless talented individuals encounter rejection or discrimination in the job market due to factors such as race, gender, nationality, lack of experience, or past mistakes. These systemic barriers prevent deserving candidates from accessing meaningful employment opportunities, perpetuating cycles of poverty, inequality, and social exclusion.

The scale of this problem is staggering, affecting millions of individuals worldwide. According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), global unemployment rates have been steadily rising, exacerbated by factors such as economic downturns, technological advancements, and now, the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, marginalized groups, including women, ethnic minorities, individuals with disabilities, and refugees, face disproportionately higher rates of unemployment and underemployment.

In our local communities, the problem is equally significant. In many regions, marginalized individuals struggle to secure stable employment due to deep-rooted biases and structural barriers within the job market. For example, in the United States, research from the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) reveals pervasive racial discrimination in hiring practices, with job applicants from minority backgrounds facing significant disadvantages compared to their white counterparts.

The factors contributing to this problem are multifaceted and intersecting. Structural inequalities, such as unequal access to education and training opportunities, perpetuate disparities in employment outcomes. Discriminatory hiring practices and unconscious biases further marginalize certain groups, hindering their ability to compete on a level playing field. Additionally, systemic issues such as wage gaps, lack of representation in leadership positions, and limited access to social networks exacerbate the challenges faced by marginalized individuals seeking employment.

Our solution, the JAC program, directly addresses these contributing factors by providing a supportive platform for marginalized individuals to access employment opportunities and overcome systemic barriers. By offering mentorship, skills development, and networking opportunities, we empower candidates to showcase their abilities and talents to prospective employers. Through personalized support and advocacy, we aim to break down the barriers that prevent deserving individuals from realizing their full potential in the workforce.

In conclusion, the problem of employment discrimination and barriers to entry is pervasive and multifaceted, affecting millions of individuals globally. Factors such as structural inequalities, discriminatory practices, and limited access to resources contribute to this problem, perpetuating cycles of exclusion and inequality. Through the JAC program, we are working to address these challenges by providing marginalized individuals with the support and opportunities they need to succeed in the workforce.

Our solution, the JAC program, is a platform designed to provide opportunities and support to individuals who face barriers to employment. Simply put, JAC gives people a chance to showcase their skills and abilities to potential employers, regardless of their background or past setbacks.

Here's how it works:

1. Application Process: Candidates interested in joining the JAC program fill out an application form, where they share their experiences with rejection and efforts to improve themselves. This helps us understand their journey and determine how we can best support them.

2. Personalized Support: Once accepted into the program, candidates receive personalized support tailored to their needs. This may include mentorship, skills development workshops, and networking opportunities.

3. Skill Development: JAC offers resources and training programs to help candidates enhance their skills and increase their competitiveness in the job market. This may involve online courses, certification programs, or hands-on workshops in various industries.

4. Networking and Opportunities: Through the JAC network, candidates gain access to job opportunities, internships, and connections with potential employers. We also provide guidance on resume writing, interview preparation, and professional development.

5. Technology: JAC utilizes a user-friendly online platform to streamline the application process and deliver resources to candidates. We leverage technology to connect candidates with mentors, facilitate virtual workshops, and track progress throughout the program.

In essence, the JAC program acts as a bridge between talented individuals and employment opportunities, helping candidates overcome barriers and achieve their career goals. By providing support, resources, and connections, we empower individuals to succeed in the workforce and realize their full potential.

The target population for the JAC program consists of individuals who face barriers to employment due to various factors such as nationality, race, gender, lack of experience, past mistakes, or educational background. These individuals are often underserved by traditional hiring processes and may struggle to access meaningful employment opportunities despite their qualifications and potential.

Specifically, our target population includes:

1. Marginalized Groups: This encompasses individuals from minority racial or ethnic backgrounds, women facing gender discrimination, members of the LGBTQ+ community, people with disabilities, refugees, and other marginalized groups who encounter systemic barriers in the job market.

2. Individuals with Limited Educational or Work Experience: Many candidates lack formal education or relevant work experience, making it challenging for them to compete in the job market, particularly in industries that prioritize credentials and qualifications.

3. Those Rejected or Overlooked by Traditional Hiring Processes: Individuals who have faced rejection or discrimination in past job applications due to biases or arbitrary factors may struggle to secure employment, leading to feelings of exclusion and discouragement.

These populations are underserved by existing employment systems that often prioritize certain characteristics or qualifications over others, perpetuating inequalities and excluding talented individuals from meaningful opportunities.

The JAC program addresses the needs of these individuals by providing tailored support and resources to help them overcome systemic barriers and access employment opportunities. Specifically, our solution offers:

1. Personalized Support: Candidates receive personalized mentorship, guidance, and support tailored to their individual needs and circumstances. This includes assistance with resume writing, interview preparation, skill development, and networking.

2. Skill Development: JAC offers resources and training programs to help candidates enhance their skills, increase their competitiveness in the job market, and pursue opportunities in their desired fields.

3. Networking Opportunities: Through the JAC network, candidates gain access to job opportunities, internships, and connections with potential employers, helping them expand their professional networks and secure meaningful employment.

4. Advocacy and Representation: JAC advocates for the inclusion and representation of marginalized individuals in the workforce, challenging discriminatory practices and promoting diversity and equity in hiring processes.

By addressing the specific needs of our target population and providing them with the support and resources they need to succeed, the JAC program aims to directly and meaningfully improve the lives of individuals who have been underserved by traditional employment systems.

Our team at JAC is uniquely positioned to design and deliver this solution to the target population because of our deep understanding and proximity to the communities we serve. While we may not all have formal academic or professional credentials, our lived experiences and personal connections within these communities inform and guide our approach.

The Team Lead and our team members represent a diverse range of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives that mirror those of the target population. Many of us have personally faced barriers to employment or discrimination in the past, giving us firsthand insight into the challenges and struggles that individuals in our communities encounter. We understand the importance of representation and inclusion in designing solutions that truly meet the needs of marginalized groups.

Our solution is meaningfully guided by the input, ideas, and agendas of the communities we serve through several key strategies:

1. Community Engagement: We actively engage with community members through outreach efforts, focus groups, and one-on-one conversations to understand their needs, concerns, and aspirations. By listening to their experiences and perspectives, we ensure that our solution is responsive to their unique circumstances and priorities.

2. Partnerships and Collaborations: We collaborate with local organizations, advocacy groups, and community leaders who have deep roots and credibility within the target communities. These partnerships enable us to leverage existing networks, resources, and expertise to design and implement our solution in a culturally sensitive and contextually relevant manner.

3. Co-Creation and Co-Design: We involve community members directly in the design and implementation of our solution through participatory approaches such as co-creation workshops, design sprints, and community-driven initiatives. This ensures that our solution reflects the needs, preferences, and values of the communities we serve, rather than imposing top-down solutions that may not resonate with their lived experiences.

4. Continuous Feedback and Iteration: We prioritize ongoing feedback and evaluation from community members throughout the design and implementation process. This allows us to course-correct, refine, and adapt our solution based on real-time input and insights from those directly impacted by our work.

Overall, our team's proximity to the communities we serve, coupled with our commitment to inclusive and participatory approaches, ensures that our solution is grounded in the lived experiences and aspirations of the target population. By centering community input, ideas, and agendas in the design and delivery of our solution, we strive to create meaningful impact and positive change for those who need it most.

So far, we have built and implemented the core components of the JAC program, including the application process, candidate selection, provision of support and resources, and facilitation of networking opportunities. Here's a summary of what we've accomplished:

1. Application Process: We have developed an online application form for candidates interested in joining the JAC program. This form collects information about candidates' experiences with rejection, efforts to improve themselves, and aspirations for their careers.

2. Candidate Selection: We have established criteria for selecting candidates based on their demonstrated determination, passion for success, and willingness to learn and grow. Candidates are evaluated based on their responses to the application form and, if eligible, are invited to participate in the program.

3. Support and Resources: We have provided personalized support and resources to candidates accepted into the program. This includes mentorship, skills development workshops, access to educational materials, and guidance on resume writing and interview preparation.

4. Networking Opportunities: Through the JAC network, we have facilitated connections between candidates and potential employers, internship opportunities, and industry professionals. These networking opportunities help candidates expand their professional networks and access job opportunities.

5. Success Stories: We have documented success stories and testimonials from candidates who have benefited from the JAC program. These individuals have secured meaningful employment opportunities and have demonstrated growth and development in their careers, validating the effectiveness of our approach.

Overall, we have served a significant number of beneficiaries through the JAC program. While the exact number may vary, we have successfully supported numerous individuals in accessing employment opportunities and realizing their career aspirations. Our focus has been on delivering tangible results and making a meaningful impact on the lives of those we serve.

You can see some of he testimonials here: https://etihuku.com/jac

As we continue to expand and scale the JAC program, we encounter various barriers across financial, technical, legal, cultural, and market domains. Solve can play a crucial role in helping us overcome these barriers through its network of partners and resources. Here are some specific areas where Solve's support would be valuable:

1. Financial Barriers: Securing funding to sustain and grow the JAC program is a significant challenge. Solve can help us connect with potential funders, investors, or philanthropic organizations who share our mission and are interested in supporting initiatives that promote social impact and equity.

2. Technical Barriers: Leveraging technology effectively is essential for optimizing the delivery of our program and reaching a wider audience. Solve can provide access to technical expertise and resources to enhance our online platform, streamline processes, and improve user experience for both candidates and partners.

3. Legal Barriers: Navigating legal frameworks and compliance requirements, particularly in areas such as data protection, privacy, and intellectual property, can be complex. Solve can offer guidance and support from legal experts to ensure that our program adheres to relevant regulations and safeguards the rights of participants.

4. Cultural Barriers: Addressing cultural sensitivities and norms is critical for effectively engaging with diverse communities and fostering inclusivity within our program. Solve can facilitate cross-cultural dialogue and provide insights into best practices for navigating cultural dynamics and promoting diversity and equity.

5. Market Barriers: Penetrating new markets and forging partnerships with employers and organizations in different industries can be challenging. Solve can connect us with potential collaborators, mentors, and market experts who can help us identify opportunities, overcome barriers, and expand our reach.

Overall, Solve's support goes beyond financial assistance and encompasses a wide range of resources and expertise that can help us overcome barriers and accelerate the impact of the JAC program. By leveraging Solve's network and collaborative platform, we can enhance our capacity to create positive change and empower individuals to access meaningful employment opportunities.

The JAC program approaches the problem of employment discrimination and barriers to entry in a novel and impactful way by focusing on providing opportunities and support to individuals who have been overlooked or rejected by traditional hiring processes. What sets JAC apart is its emphasis on giving these individuals a chance to showcase their skills and abilities, regardless of their background or past setbacks. Here's how our solution innovates and catalyzes broader positive impacts:

1. Focus on Potential Over Credentials: Unlike conventional hiring practices that prioritize formal qualifications and experience, JAC recognizes the inherent value and potential of individuals who may not fit the traditional mold. By shifting the focus from credentials to capabilities, JAC opens doors for talented individuals who have been unfairly sidelined by systemic biases.

2. Holistic Support and Development: JAC goes beyond simply connecting candidates with job opportunities; it provides holistic support and development to empower individuals to succeed in the workforce. Through mentorship, skills development, networking opportunities, and advocacy efforts, JAC equips candidates with the tools and resources they need to thrive in their chosen fields.

3. Community-Centric Approach: JAC takes a community-centric approach to addressing employment barriers, actively engaging with and involving community members in the design and implementation of the program. By centering the voices and experiences of those directly impacted by the problem, JAC ensures that its solutions are relevant, responsive, and culturally sensitive.

4. Collaborative Ecosystem: JAC recognizes that no single organization or initiative can solve complex social problems alone. Therefore, it seeks to catalyze broader positive impacts by fostering collaboration and partnerships within the ecosystem. By connecting with employers, educational institutions, government agencies, and other stakeholders, JAC amplifies its reach and influence, driving systemic change across the market landscape.

5. Demonstrated Success and Impact: Through its track record of success stories and testimonials, JAC serves as a powerful example of what can be achieved when individuals are given a chance to succeed. By showcasing the tangible benefits and positive outcomes of its approach, JAC inspires others in the space to adopt similar strategies and initiatives, thereby catalyzing broader positive impacts within the employment ecosystem.

Overall, the JAC program has the potential to change the market landscape by challenging traditional hiring norms, promoting inclusivity and equity, and empowering individuals to reach their full potential in the workforce. Through its innovative approach, collaborative ethos, and demonstrated impact, JAC serves as a catalyst for broader positive change within the employment space, driving towards a future where everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed.

The theory of change for the JAC program is straightforward and grounded in the belief that everyone deserves a chance to succeed in the workforce, regardless of their background or past setbacks. Here's how we expect our solution to have an impact on the problem:

1. Activities:

   • Candidate Recruitment: We identify and engage individuals who have faced barriers to employment due to factors such as nationality, race, gender, lack of experience, or past mistakes.
   • Support and Resources: We provide personalized support, mentorship, skills development workshops, and networking opportunities to help candidates showcase their abilities and prepare for employment.
   • Employer Engagement: We connect candidates with potential employers, internship opportunities, and industry professionals to facilitate access to meaningful employment opportunities.

2. Outputs:

   • Increased Confidence and Preparedness: Candidates develop increased confidence, self-esteem, and readiness to enter the workforce through personalized support and skills development.
   • Expanded Professional Networks: Candidates build connections with employers and industry professionals, expanding their professional networks and access to job opportunities.
   • Improved Employability: Candidates enhance their skills, knowledge, and qualifications, making them more competitive in the job market and increasing their chances of securing employment.

3. Outcomes:

   • Employment Opportunities: Candidates successfully secure meaningful employment opportunities, breaking through barriers and achieving their career aspirations.
   • Economic Empowerment: Employed candidates experience improved financial stability, independence, and quality of life, positively impacting themselves and their families.
   • Systemic Change: By demonstrating the effectiveness of our approach and advocating for inclusive hiring practices, we contribute to broader systemic change within the employment landscape, promoting equity and diversity.

We expect these activities to lead to immediate outputs such as increased confidence, expanded networks, and improved employability among candidates. Over the longer term, we anticipate outcomes such as increased employment opportunities, economic empowerment, and systemic change within the employment landscape.

This theory of change is supported by evidence from success stories, testimonials from candidates, and feedback from employers and partners who have witnessed the impact of the JAC program firsthand. By connecting activities to outputs and outcomes in a logical framework, we demonstrate the effectiveness and potential of our solution to address the problem of employment barriers and discrimination.

Our impact goals for the JAC program are centered around creating transformational change in the lives of individuals who face barriers to employment, as well as fostering broader systemic change within the employment landscape. Here are our impact goals and how we measure progress towards them:

1. Increase Employment Opportunities: Our primary impact goal is to increase the number of individuals who secure meaningful employment opportunities as a result of participating in the JAC program. We measure progress towards this goal by tracking the number of candidates who successfully transition into employment within a specified timeframe after completing the program.

2. Promote Economic Empowerment: We aim to promote economic empowerment among program participants by improving their financial stability, independence, and overall quality of life through employment. We measure progress towards this goal by monitoring indicators such as income levels, job stability, and self-reported improvements in financial well-being among employed candidates.

3. Facilitate Systemic Change: Our broader impact goal is to contribute to systemic change within the employment landscape by advocating for inclusive hiring practices and challenging discriminatory norms. We measure progress towards this goal by tracking changes in hiring policies, practices, and attitudes among employers and industry stakeholders, as well as by monitoring indicators related to diversity and representation in the workforce.

4. Enhance Skills and Competencies: We aim to enhance the skills, knowledge, and competencies of program participants, making them more competitive in the job market and increasing their long-term employability. We measure progress towards this goal by assessing participants' skills development through pre- and post-program evaluations, as well as tracking their engagement in continued education and training activities.

5. Promote Social Inclusion and Equity: We seek to promote social inclusion and equity by providing opportunities for individuals from marginalized backgrounds to access employment and participate fully in economic and social life. We measure progress towards this goal by monitoring indicators such as demographic diversity among program participants, as well as by assessing their sense of belonging and inclusion in the workplace.

These impact goals guide all aspects of our work, from program design and implementation to monitoring and evaluation. By tracking progress towards these goals through a combination of quantitative and qualitative indicators, we ensure that our efforts are aligned with our mission of creating positive, transformational change in the lives of individuals and communities affected by employment barriers.

The core technology that powers the JAC program is an online platform and digital tools that facilitate the recruitment, support, and networking of program participants. While the technology itself may not be cutting-edge in terms of AI or blockchain, it leverages modern digital infrastructure to effectively address the problem of employment barriers and discrimination. Here's an overview of the core technology components:

1. Online Application Platform: The JAC program utilizes an online application platform where candidates can apply to join the program by providing information about their experiences with rejection, efforts to improve themselves, and aspirations for their careers. This platform streamlines the application process and enables efficient data collection and management.

2. Candidate Database: The program maintains a database of program participants, including their profiles, skills, and preferences. This database allows for personalized matching of candidates with potential employment opportunities and facilitates targeted support and resources based on individual needs.

3. Mentorship and Networking Tools: JAC provides digital tools and resources for mentorship, skills development, and networking opportunities. These tools may include virtual mentoring platforms, online training modules, and communication channels for connecting candidates with mentors, industry professionals, and potential employers.

4. Data Analytics and Monitoring: The program utilizes data analytics and monitoring tools to track and evaluate key metrics such as candidate outcomes, program effectiveness, and impact on employment barriers. This data-driven approach enables continuous improvement and optimization of program strategies and interventions.

5. Communication Channels: JAC leverages various communication channels such as email, messaging apps, and social media to engage with candidates, partners, and stakeholders. These channels facilitate ongoing communication, outreach, and dissemination of information about program activities and opportunities.

While the core technology components of the JAC program may not be considered cutting-edge in isolation, their integration and application within the context of addressing employment barriers and discrimination represent a modern and impactful use of technology. By harnessing digital tools and platforms, the program effectively connects individuals with opportunities, resources, and support networks, ultimately driving positive change in the lives of program participants and contributing to broader societal goals of equity and inclusion.

Full Time: 3

Part Time: 5

2 years

Ensuring diversity, minimizing barriers to opportunity, and fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all team members are fundamental principles of the JAC program. We recognize the importance of diversity in perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds in driving innovation and creating positive impact. Here are some ways we strive to achieve these goals:

1. Diverse Leadership Team: Our leadership team is intentionally diverse, comprising individuals from a variety of backgrounds, including different racial and ethnic identities, genders, ages, and lived experiences. This diversity at the top reflects our commitment to inclusivity and ensures that multiple perspectives are represented in decision-making processes.

2. Recruitment and Hiring Practices: We prioritize diversity and inclusion in our recruitment and hiring practices, actively seeking candidates from underrepresented groups and ensuring that job postings are accessible and inclusive. We implement blind resume screening techniques to minimize unconscious bias and promote fair evaluation of candidates based on their skills and qualifications.

3. Training and Education: We provide training and educational opportunities for team members to increase awareness and understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion issues. This may include workshops, seminars, or discussions on topics such as unconscious bias, cultural competence, and allyship.

4. Employee Resource Groups: We support the formation of employee resource groups (ERGs) or affinity groups where team members can connect, share experiences, and advocate for issues related to diversity and inclusion. These groups provide a space for mutual support and collaboration across different identities and backgrounds.

5. Transparent Communication: We maintain transparent communication channels where team members feel comfortable expressing their perspectives, raising concerns, and providing feedback on diversity and inclusion matters. This fosters a culture of openness, trust, and accountability within the organization.

6. Policies and Practices: We review and revise organizational policies and practices to ensure they promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. This may include implementing flexible work arrangements, providing accommodations for individuals with disabilities, and offering inclusive benefits packages.

7. Community Engagement: We actively engage with diverse communities, stakeholders, and partners to ensure that our programs and initiatives are responsive to the needs and priorities of the populations we serve. This includes seeking input and feedback from community members and involving them in the co-design and implementation of our solutions.

By prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of our work, we strive to create a workplace where all team members feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique talents and perspectives towards achieving our mission of promoting social impact and equity.

The JAC program operates on a business model that focuses on providing value to both candidates seeking employment opportunities and employers aiming to diversify their workforce. For candidates, we offer access to opportunities that they may have been previously denied due to barriers like prejudice, discrimination, or lack of experience. Through personalized support, mentorship, skills development workshops, and networking opportunities, we empower candidates to succeed in the workforce and pursue their career aspirations.

Employers benefit from our program by gaining access to a diverse talent pool from underrepresented backgrounds. We advocate for and support inclusive hiring practices, helping employers build more innovative and inclusive teams. Additionally, by partnering with JAC, employers demonstrate their commitment to corporate social responsibility and making a positive impact on society.

Our products and services include candidate recruitment and matching, support and resources for candidates, and partnerships with employers to understand their hiring needs and facilitate connections with qualified candidates. We deliver these services through an online platform, in-person events like networking sessions and workshops, and community engagement efforts.

Revenue is generated through partnerships, sponsorships, and collaborations with organizations, employers, and stakeholders who support our mission of promoting diversity and inclusion within the workforce. Additionally, we may charge employers a fee for access to our candidate database and recruitment services, depending on the level of engagement and services provided.

Overall, our business model is designed to create value for candidates, employers, and society as a whole while generating revenue through strategic partnerships and fee-for-service offerings. By aligning our products and services with the needs and priorities of our key customers and beneficiaries, we aim to create sustainable impact and drive positive change within the employment landscape.

Our plan for achieving financial sustainability involves a combination of revenue streams, including sustained donations and grants, fee-for-service offerings, and strategic partnerships. Here's how we plan to generate revenue and evidence of our success so far:

1. Sustained Donations and Grants: We actively seek funding from philanthropic organizations, foundations, and individual donors who share our mission of promoting diversity and inclusion within the workforce. These donations and grants provide essential funding to support program operations, outreach efforts, and impact evaluation activities.

2. Fee-for-Service Offerings: We offer fee-for-service offerings to employers interested in accessing our candidate database, recruitment services, and support resources. Employers may pay a fee for services such as candidate matching, recruitment events, or customized diversity and inclusion training programs. This revenue stream helps cover the costs of program delivery and ensures the sustainability of our operations.

3. Strategic Partnerships: We establish strategic partnerships and collaborations with organizations, businesses, and government agencies that align with our mission and can provide financial support, in-kind contributions, or other resources. These partnerships may involve co-funded projects, joint initiatives, or shared service contracts that generate revenue and leverage additional resources to amplify our impact.

4. Product Sales: While not a primary revenue stream, we may explore opportunities to generate income through the sale of products or merchandise related to the JAC program. This could include branded merchandise, educational materials, or digital resources that complement our core services and generate supplementary revenue.