At CACRC, we believe that access to technology can be a turning point, especially for individuals working to rebuild their lives and re-enter the workforce. That belief was on full display at the Ascension Parish 2nd Chance Job Fair, where community partners came together to support residents facing barriers to employment with practical tools, resources, and renewed hope.
Hosted at the Ascension Parish Library, the 2nd Chance Job Fair focused on serving individuals who are unemployed, underemployed, or formerly incarcerated and ready to take their next step forward. More than just a hiring event, the day was designed to remove one of the most common, and often overlooked, obstacles to success in today’s job market: lack of access to reliable technology and internet service.
Technology as a Workforce Development Tool
Through CACRC’s Computers for Louisiana Families and Connecting Louisiana Families programs, participants received free laptops and internet access to support their job search, skills development, and long-term stability. In a world where applications, interviews, training programs, and communication increasingly happen online, having a computer and reliable internet is no longer optional, it’s essential.
This event was made possible by a significant milestone for CACRC under the leadership of Executive Director Michael Rachal, who earlier secured his first grant award in the role — funding that directly supported the technology distributed at the 2nd Chance Job Fair.
At the time the grant was awarded, Michael shared the news with the community:
“It’s Monday but feels more like a WINSday! I have successfully secured my first grant award as Executive Director. Most importantly, I am happy to share that 100 Ascension Parish families will receive laptops and one year of internet access absolutely free. Did I mention great things are happening at CACRC?”
Because of this early investment, 100 Ascension Parish families arrived at the 2nd Chance Job Fair already positioned to receive the tools they needed to pursue employment, education, and economic mobility.
A Community-Centered Approach
The Ascension Parish Library served as more than just a venue, it acted as a trusted community hub where participants could connect not only to technology, but also to opportunity. In addition to device distribution, the job fair offered workforce-focused resources such as job application assistance, resume support, and opportunities to connect with employers and service providers.
This holistic approach reflects CACRC’s commitment to meeting people where they are and addressing real-world challenges with practical solutions. Access to a laptop can mean the difference between submitting an application or missing an opportunity; access to internet service can determine whether someone can attend a virtual interview or complete required training.
Building Second Chances Through Digital Access
At its core, the Ascension Parish 2nd Chance Job Fair was about more than technology — it was about dignity, possibility, and forward momentum. By pairing workforce readiness with digital access, CACRC and its partners helped ensure that participants were not only encouraged to pursue new opportunities, but truly equipped to do so.
Events like this underscore why CACRC’s mission matters. When retired electronics are responsibly recycled and refurbished, they become powerful tools for change — opening doors for individuals, strengthening families, and supporting healthier, more connected communities.
As CACRC continues to expand its impact across Louisiana, partnerships like the Ascension Parish 2nd Chance Job Fair remind us that second chances deserve first-rate support — and that access to technology can be the bridge that makes them possible.
