CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Inmates from Mecklenburg County Detention Center got the opportunity to attend a career fair on Monday, thanks to the Mecklenburg County Sheriff's Office.
Sheriff Garry McFadden hosted the job fair inside the Mecklenburg County Detention Center.
According to the sheriff's office, every inmate seeking a job is within 90 days of release, has completed Employment Readiness and has worked extensively with a career adviser to create a resume and develop interview skills.
“I'm preparing your neighbor,” Sheriff McFadden said when he first announced the event. “You may not believe that, but somebody may move next door to you who's been incarcerated. I want to prepare that person for re-entry."
On Sunday, several barbers from the Queen City stepped up to help and gave the inmates free haircuts ahead of their big day.
Monday's career fair was at the Mecklenburg County Detention Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. All applicants were expected to be dressed in appropriate business attire, with resumes, ready to interview.
"Our Staff has witnessed an immediate increase in self-esteem and self-confidence in residents as they prepared for the Career Fair," the sheriff's office said.
Several local companies helped to make this event successful, including: NC Works, Charlotte Works, Dress For Success, Crisis Assistance Ministries, Suit Up Charlotte, Kay Cee's Creations and Dandy Cleaners.