Empowering New Beginnings: Our 2nd Annual Returning Citizens Career & Wellness Fair
On Saturday, April 26, 2025, the Urban League of Hampton Roads, in partnership with the Virginia Office of the Attorney General and Revive Community of Virginia, proudly hosted the 2nd Annual Hampton Roads Returning Citizens Career & Wellness Fair at Revive Community of Virginia.
The event brought together 18 vendors and welcomed several justice-impacted individuals ready to take meaningful steps toward employment and personal growth. Employers and community partners stood committed to offering second-chance opportunities and vital support services such as on-the-spot hiring opportunities, career readiness services and resource connections. Several participants successfully secured interviews and job offers during the event. Others received complimentary, one-on-one resume reviews, one-on-one career consultations, information on available training and educational programs and assistance with job applications. Community organizations also provided useful services in housing, mental health and more for a holistic approach to social integration.
We were honored to welcome distinguished guest speakers who shared words of encouragement and support:
Alexander McBath, Executive Director, Revive Community of Virginia
Councilman John E. Paige, City of Norfolk, Ward 4
Gil Bland, President & CEO, Urban League of Hampton Roads
AG Jason Miyares, Attorney General of Virginia, Virginia Office of Attorney General
Sentara Health, Hampton Roads Workforce Council, QED Systems Inc., Goodwill VA, Virginia Wesleyan University, Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, Virginia Department of Corrections, Norfolk Sheriff’s Department, Portsmouth@Work, Gateway Services, Virginia Works, Fishing Point, Garden of Hope, Zen Life Wellness Foundation, STEP-UP, Housing Opportunities Made Equal of VA and Bethany Baptist Church were on site as vendors.
We are proud to champion second chances and create spaces where opportunity meets ambition. Thank you to all the employers, vendors, guest speakers, volunteers, and partners who made this event possible. Together, we are helping build a stronger, more inclusive Hampton Roads.
Lead career initiatives in your community.
The 2nd Annual Hampton Roads Returning Citizens Career & Wellness Fair showed the power of second chances. Now, you can help extend that impact all year long.
As a member of the Career Architects Collective, you’ll shape career initiatives that empower professionals, job seekers, and our community. From planning events to supporting workforce development, your leadership can open doors to lasting change.
✅ Plan career events
✅ Support job seekers
✅ Foster mentorship & networking
Ready to lead? Sign up today and help architect a stronger Hampton Roads.