 Finding Work in Washington: Real Numbers, Real People, Real Next Steps By, Shawna L. Turner Looking for a job can feel like carrying two things at once: the practical pressure of bills and responsibilities, and the emotional weight of uncertainty. Even when the economy looks “okay” on paper, the experience of job searching can still be exhausting—applications, interviews, no responses, and the quiet worry that starts to creep in at night. At Adonai Counseling and Employment, we want you to know this: you are not alone in it, and you do not have to do it by yourself. Below is a snapshot of what’s happening in Washington’s job market right now—plus what you can do next, and how we can help. What the Washington job market looks like right now (facts & figures) Here are a few recent indicators that help explain why some job searches feel competitive, even when hiring is still happening:
This is why “just keep applying” isn’t enough. The job search works better when it becomes a strategy—not a grind. Practical steps that help right now (even if you’re overwhelmed) If you’re job searching today, here are four moves that consistently improve results: 1) Make your resume speak the employer’s language Many employers use applicant tracking systems (ATS). That means your resume needs:
The state publishes ongoing labor market reports and projections that help identify where demand is trending. Even if your “dream job” is the goal, a strong bridge job in a hiring-heavy sector can stabilize income and rebuild momentum. 3) Prepare for interviews like they’re a skill (because they are) Interview confidence isn’t personality—it’s practice:
Job searching can impact mental health, relationships, and self-worth. Support matters—especially if you’ve been discouraged for a while. How Adonai Counseling and Employment can help We’re here for both the practical and the personal parts of employment. Resume + job search support
We offer workshops and classes designed to meet people where they are—whether you’re starting over, changing careers, re-entering the workforce, or just trying to land something stable. Depending on your needs, topics can include:
If you’re tired - You're not alone If you’ve been applying for weeks or months, it can start to feel personal. It isn’t. The job market is data, timing, systems—and sometimes bad luck. But you are not stuck. With the right resume, the right positioning, and consistent support, most people do not stay in the “no” season forever. If you need help, Adonai Counseling and Employment is here—to help you build the next version of your working life with dignity, clarity, and real tools that work. #employment #jobseeker #secondchance #adonai #counseling #shawnaturner #job #interview #livelifetothefullest
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 What Happens After an Arrest By, Shawna Turner Most people don’t think about the justice system until it touches their life—an arrest, a call from a loved one in jail, a court summons, a crime in the neighborhood, or a headline that doesn’t sit right. Suddenly, the system feels confusing and enormous, filled with rules, timelines, and decisions that can change someone’s future in a matter of minutes. Understanding how Washington State’s justice system fits into the larger U.S. system—and what happens from the first police contact to courts, corrections, and reentry—helps replace fear and guesswork with clarity, and makes it easier to see what’s working, what’s strained, and why it matters to every community. Two systems at once: state justice and federal justice One of the most important facts about American justice is that we don’t have one justice system—we have many.
policing → charging → defense → courts → sentencing → corrections → reentry/supervision. The Bureau of Justice Statistics has a plain-language flowchart that outlines the most common path a case can take—from first contact with law enforcement to prosecution, sentencing, and corrections. Washington State’s court system: who hears what? Washington’s state courts have four levels:
Why does that matter? Because it shapes everything from:
A major pressure point: public defense A justice system isn’t “fair” just because the rules say it is. It’s fair only if people actually have access to meaningful legal representation. In 2025, Washington State Courts published information about an interim order from the Washington Supreme Court adopting new caseload standards for indigent (public) defense—an acknowledgment that defender workloads can directly affect the quality of representation. This issue matters because public defense isn’t a side detail—it’s a cornerstone. When defense attorneys have too many cases at once, the system can become slower, less consistent, and more likely to pressure people into decisions (including plea deals) they may not fully understand or be able to fight. Corrections in Washington: prisons, reentry centers, and capacity Washington’s corrections system includes prisons as well as reentry-focused facilities and partial confinement programs. A Washington State Department of Corrections fact card (June 2025) reports:
Those numbers are more than accounting—they shape:
The national picture: prisons and jails are different—and both are huge At the national level, two systems run in parallel:
The justice system’s ongoing tension: safety, fairness, and capacity Every justice system is balancing three forces that often collide: 1) Public safety People want safe neighborhoods. Victims want accountability. Communities want violence reduced—not explained away. 2) Due process and equal treatment The system is supposed to be consistent: similar conduct, similar outcomes. But real life is messy: money, legal knowledge, mental health, addiction, and community resources can drastically change how a case plays out. 3) Capacity Courts, jails, prisons, prosecutors, and defenders all operate with limits—budgets, staffing, time, and space. When capacity is strained, outcomes can tilt toward speed over precision. That’s why debates around bail, plea bargaining, sentencing policy, diversion programs, treatment access, and reentry support are not “side issues.” They are the levers that determine whether the system produces stability—or cycles. Why reentry has become a central justice issue A system that only punishes but doesn’t rebuild creates a predictable problem: people return to the community with fewer options, fewer supports, and often greater risk. The justice system doesn’t end at sentencing. In many ways, the hardest part begins after:
A compelling truth: justice is a system, not a moment It’s tempting to reduce justice to one headline: a conviction, a release, a protest, a sentence, a tragedy. But justice is mostly built in ordinary moments:
That’s the real measure of a justice system: not only how it punishes, but how well it protects rights, prevents harm, and helps people return to society ready to live differently. Justice isn’t only a courtroom verdict or a headline moment—it’s a system made up of thousands of everyday decisions. It shows up in whether someone can access a lawyer who has time to prepare, whether courts have the resources to move cases fairly and efficiently, whether corrections offers real rehabilitation and reentry planning, and whether people returning home can realistically find housing, work, and stability. When any part of that chain breaks down, the ripple effects reach families, victims, and entire communities. In the end, a strong justice system is measured not only by how it holds people accountable, but by how well it protects rights, prevents harm, and supports safer futures. When reentry succeeds, communities are safer and stronger—more people working, more families stabilized, fewer future victims. That’s why understanding how the system works matters: it helps us see where justice is working, where it needs reform, and why investing in fairness and second chances is also an investment in public safety. #metalhealth #reentry #hope #education #adonai #employment #counseling #shawnaturner
 Re-Entry Is a Brave Beginning: Finding Housing, Work, and Hope After Prison by, Shawna Turner Coming home after prison can feel like stepping into a world that kept moving without you. You may be doing everything “right”—showing up, trying, staying focused—yet still facing closed doors. Housing applications that stall. Job interviews that end the moment your record comes up. Old contacts suddenly reappearing with familiar temptations. And underneath it all: the pressure to prove you’ve changed while you’re still trying to rebuild who you are. At Adonai Counseling and Employment, we want to say this clearly: Re-entry is not just a process. It’s a fight for stability, dignity, and hope. And you do not have to fight alone. Why re-entry feels so hard, even when you’re determined Many people think re-entry is only about willpower. But the truth is: re-entry is also about systems—and how difficult those systems can be to navigate with a record. Nationally, the numbers show how common it is to get pulled back into the system. The Bureau of Justice Statistics reports that among people released from prison in a large multi-state study, 83% were arrested within 9 years (and 68% within 3 years). That statistic isn’t there to discourage you. It’s there to tell the truth: If re-entry feels heavy, it’s because it is. And if you need support, that doesn’t mean you’re weak—it means you’re human. The housing struggle: “Where can I go when nobody will rent to me?” Housing is often the first barrier—and the most urgent. What can help right away
Housing rules and guidance can shift over time, and policies vary by landlord and program. If you hit a wall, it may be worth talking with a local housing advocate or legal aid about what options exist for your specific situation. Getting a job with a record: it’s not hopeless—even when it feels like it People with records are often talented, capable, and ready to work. The challenge is getting employers to see past fear and assumptions. Washington protections you should know Washington’s Fair Chance Act limits when many employers can ask about criminal history and is designed to help applicants compete based on qualifications first. The Washington State Attorney General's Office explains the law and employer requirements. Practical job-search strategies that work
The U.S. Department of Labor points people to American Job Centers for job search help and notes resources like federal bonding and employer tax incentives that can make it easier for employers to say yes. In Washington, there are also ongoing reentry employment efforts—like Employment Security Department initiatives providing reentry help (including job search support and connections to housing and services in certain counties). The hardest part nobody talks about: the pull of old friendships and fast money Even with housing and job goals, the streets can call you back—especially when:
What helps you stay free 1) Build a new circle on purpose You don’t need a lot of people—you need the right ones. One steady mentor, one support group, one accountability partner can change everything. 2) Learn your triggers before they learn you Stress, rejection, boredom, paydays, certain neighborhoods, certain phone calls—your triggers are not moral failures. They’re patterns. Once you name them, you can plan around them. 3) Replace—not just resist “Don’t go back” is not a plan. A plan sounds like:
A photo of your kids. A note in your wallet. A list on your phone. Something that reminds you: I didn’t come this far to go back. What Adonai Counseling and Employment can do with you We support the full reality of re-entry—the practical and the personal. Employment support
Because re-entry is not just “getting hired.” It’s staying grounded when life tests you. A closing word: you are not your worst chapter Re-entry can be exhausting. It can be discomfiting. It can feel unfair. But it can also be the start of a life you never thought you’d be allowed to have. If you are trying—if you are showing up—if you are choosing growth over old patterns--that matters. And if you need help, Hope Re-Entry and Adonai Counseling and Employment are here. Not to judge your past, but to help you build your future—step by step, with real support. #metalhealth #reentry #hope #education #adonai #employment #counseling #shawnaturner
 From Surviving to Thriving: The Power of Purpose After Prison By, Shawna Turner Beyond the BarsEvery year, hundreds of thousands of individuals return home after serving time in prison. For many, that moment of release is met with both relief and dread. Yes, they’re free—but now what? Society often expects the worst. Stereotypes persist. Doors stay closed. And for some, the stigma of incarceration becomes a lifelong sentence. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Reentry can be more than survival—it can be transformation. Across the country, formerly incarcerated individuals are not just finding their footing—they’re finding their purpose. They’re becoming business owners, counselors, educators, artists, community leaders, and change-makers. And what makes the difference between someone who falls back into the system and someone who rises to build a new life? Purpose. Not punishment. Not fear. Not shame. But purpose. The Harsh Reality of ReentryBefore we celebrate the success stories, we need to name the real obstacles returning citizens face:
But when a person finds purpose—something meaningful to work toward—something changes. The Game-Changer in ReentryPurpose gives people a reason to resist despair. It provides a goal, a structure, a sense of identity beyond a prison number or a rap sheet. And that sense of purpose can be found in many ways: 🛠️ Work That MattersWhen someone is given the chance to contribute, earn a living, and be seen as capable—they begin to rewrite their story.
📚 Education as a LaunchpadHigher education has become one of the most effective reentry tools:
We All Benefit When No One Is Written OffHere’s the truth that often gets lost in political soundbites: successful reentry isn’t just good for individuals—it’s good for everyone.
What We Can DoWhether you're an employer, a teacher, a voter, a faith leader, or a neighbor--you have a role to play in helping people find purpose after prison. ✔️ Hire someone with a record.Skills can be trained. Character, work ethic, and loyalty often shine strongest in those who’ve been overlooked. ✔️ Support second-chance education.Advocate for in-prison and post-release college programs, GED initiatives, and vocational training. ✔️ Invest in mentorship.If you’ve walked through hardship, your story might be the hope someone else needs to hear. ✔️ Challenge the narrative.Share stories of transformation. Use your platform to humanize—not stigmatize—those who’ve paid their debt to society. ✔️ Vote for policies that support reentry.Support local and national efforts that fund reentry services, reduce legal barriers to employment, and restore civil rights. Final Thought: From Brokenness to BreakthroughThe journey from prison to purpose isn’t easy. It takes courage, support, structure, and grace. But it is possible. And when we believe in the potential of every person to grow, change, and contribute, we create a society rooted in hope—not fear. No one should be forever defined by their worst moment. When we stop writing people off and start writing them into our collective future, we all thrive. Let’s stop asking “What did you do?” and start asking “What can you become?” Because surviving is only the beginning. Thriving is the goal. #metalhealth #reentry #hope #education #adonai #employment #counseling #shawnaturner
 Real Challenges of Prison Reentry—And What We Can Do About It By, Shawna Turner For many formerly incarcerated individuals, being released from prison is only the beginning of a new—and often overwhelming—chapter. After months or years behind bars, they face a world that has moved on without them. They must navigate housing, employment, family reintegration, mental health issues, and a justice system that doesn’t always offer a path forward. Reentry is one of the most difficult transitions a person can experience. Yet, it's also one of the most critical to get right—not just for the individual, but for the health and safety of entire communities. If we truly want safer neighborhoods, lower crime rates, and more productive citizens, then reentry must be about restoration—not punishment. The cycle of incarceration won't end until reentry becomes more than just survival—it must become opportunity. The Hard Truth: What Returning Citizens FaceEach year, more than 600,000 people are released from state and federal prisons in the United States. Many more cycle in and out of jails. When they return home, they often encounter: 1. Housing Discrimination and Homelessness
2. Employment Barriers
3. Lack of Access to Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment
4. Strained Family and Community Ties
What Actually Works: The Pillars of Successful ReentryDespite these challenges, we know what works. Decades of research and community-based programs have shown that successful reentry depends on three major pillars: ✅ Stable Housing
✅ Supportive Relationships and Services
Who’s Doing the Work: Real Examples of HopeAcross the country, nonprofits, churches, and bipartisan initiatives are stepping up:
What You Can Do: Turning Compassion Into ActionWhether you’re a neighbor, business owner, policymaker, pastor, or simply a concerned citizen, you can help break the cycle. Here’s how: 🛠 Employ — If you run a business, consider becoming a second-chance employer. Skills can be taught; character is priceless. 🏠 Advocate for Housing Access — Support local zoning changes and programs that create affordable, inclusive housing for all. 🤝 Mentor or Volunteer — Many organizations need mentors, tutors, or volunteers to run life skills classes, mock interviews, or support circles. 📣 Change the Narrative — Speak up. Challenge stigma. Share stories of redemption and resilience, not just crime and punishment. 💒 Open Doors Through Faith Communities — Churches and religious organizations can be powerful bridges between returning citizens and the community. People Are More Than Their Worst MistakeWe cannot call ourselves a just or moral society if we continue to throw people away after they've served their time. Reentry is not about being “soft on crime”—it's about being smart on restoration. It’s about recognizing human dignity and investing in potential. A person who has made a mistake and served their sentence should not be locked out of life forever. When we offer empathy over judgment, support over suspicion, and opportunity over obstacles—we all win. Because breaking the cycle of incarceration doesn't just change one life. It changes families. It changes neighborhoods. It changes futures. #reentry #community #employment #Adonai #Employment #Counseling #Mentalhealth #shawnaturner
 Finding Work After Setbacks: Employment Strategies for Second Chances By, Shawna Turner Life doesn’t always go according to plan. Illness, incarceration, addiction, caregiving responsibilities, or just plain bad luck can sideline anyone’s career. But a setback doesn’t have to be a dead end. For thousands of Americans each year, it becomes the turning point that opens the door to a new beginning. Whether you’ve been out of the workforce for months or years, re-entering employment can feel overwhelming. The job market is competitive, technology is constantly evolving, and stigma around certain life experiences—like incarceration—can make it even harder to get a foot in the door. But here’s the good news: you are not alone. And there are practical, proven strategies that can help you reclaim your place in the workforce—no matter your background. 1. Acknowledge Your Value The first and most important step is internal. Shame and self-doubt are powerful forces, but they don’t have to win. Whether you were raising children, serving time, caring for a parent, or dealing with your own health—you gained skills along the way. Time management, problem-solving, resilience, negotiation, endurance, adaptability—these are all valuable in the workplace. Give yourself credit. Employers are looking for people who are reliable, teachable, and ready to work. Don’t disqualify yourself before you even apply. 2. Tell Your Story—Strategically You don’t have to share every detail of your past, but you can frame your experiences in a way that highlights your growth. Instead of saying, “I was in prison for five years,” try: “After facing legal consequences, I spent several years rebuilding my life. During that time, I completed a vocational program in welding and volunteered in my community. I’m now looking forward to using those skills in a steady, long-term position.” This kind of honesty, paired with progress, can be incredibly compelling to employers—especially those who value loyalty and character. 3. Use Support Networks That Exist for YOU There are countless organizations, programs, and government agencies whose sole purpose is to help people like you re-enter the workforce. Some examples:
4. Start Small, Think Long If the perfect job doesn’t come right away, that’s okay. Sometimes the best path forward starts with a stepping stone job—a gig that helps you earn money, build a reference, and re-establish your work rhythm. Part-time work, gig economy jobs, food service, or maintenance roles can still offer pride and purpose. Don’t overlook temp agencies either—they often serve as a gateway to full-time employment and benefits. 5. Know Your Rights Many states have laws that protect people with criminal records from employment discrimination—especially if the offense is unrelated to the job. Some even allow for the expungement of certain records. Also, under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, employers must get your permission before running a background check, and they must give you a chance to respond to any negative findings. Organizations like Legal Aid or local reentry programs can help you understand your rights and clear up old records. 6. Learn the New Job Landscape Workplaces have changed. Remote work, virtual interviews, and online applications are the new normal in many industries. If you’ve been out of work for a while, brushing up on digital skills will serve you well. You don’t need to master coding or be a tech wizard, but basic skills—email, word processing, video conferencing—can make a big difference. Websites like GCFLearnFree and LinkedIn Learning offer free courses to get you up to speed. 7. Lean Into Your “Why” Every second-chance story has a deeper reason behind it: providing for family, proving something to yourself, living a different life than before. Let that motivation fuel you. Employers can often sense passion and sincerity—and it matters. When you show that you’ve put in the work to change, and you’re committed to growth, the right job will find you. Final Thought: You're Not a Statistic—You're a Comeback Story In today’s political climate, it can feel like we’re more divided than ever. But one thing Americans across the board tend to agree on is redemption. The belief that people can change. That effort matters. That second chances should exist. Whether you vote red, blue, or not at all—opportunity and dignity at work are universal values. You have something to offer. The road back may not be easy—but it is possible. And you don’t have to walk it alone. #employment #jobseeker #secondchance #adonai #counseling #shawnaturner #job #interview #livelifetothefullest
 Rebuilding: Navigating Life After Prison
By, Shawna Turner Leaving the confines of prison marks the beginning of a new chapter in an individual's life, one fraught with challenges and uncertainties. The transition from incarceration back into society is riddled with hurdles that can often seem insurmountable. From reintegration into family life to securing stable employment and battling social stigma, those who have served time face a myriad of obstacles. However, with the right support systems and resources in place, these challenges can be addressed, paving the way for successful reentry and a brighter future. One of the most pressing challenges individuals encounter upon release from prison is the reestablishment of familial relationships. Extended periods of separation can strain familial bonds, leading to feelings of estrangement and alienation. Rebuilding trust and communication takes time and patience, requiring a concerted effort from both parties involved. Counseling and family therapy sessions can provide a safe space for open dialogue, facilitating reconciliation and fostering stronger connections. Another significant hurdle is the search for employment. The stigma associated with a criminal record often acts as a formidable barrier, with many employers hesitant to hire individuals with a history of incarceration. As a result, returning citizens are frequently met with rejection and disappointment, exacerbating feelings of hopelessness and despair. However, initiatives such as ban the box policies, which prohibit employers from inquiring about criminal history on job applications, are gaining traction across the country, offering a glimmer of hope for those seeking a fresh start. Additionally, vocational training programs and job placement services tailored to formerly incarcerated individuals can provide valuable skills and support, increasing their employability and enhancing their prospects for success in the workforce. Furthermore, navigating the complex web of social services and resources available post-release can be overwhelming for many individuals. From accessing healthcare and housing assistance to obtaining identification documents and enrolling in educational programs, the bureaucratic maze can present formidable challenges. Community-based organizations and reentry support networks play a crucial role in guiding individuals through this process, offering guidance and advocacy to help them access the services they need to rebuild their lives. Moreover, the pervasive stigma surrounding incarceration often leads to social ostracism and discrimination, further compounding the challenges faced by returning citizens. Overcoming societal prejudices requires a shift in attitudes and perceptions, challenging ingrained stereotypes and recognizing the inherent worth and potential of every individual, regardless of their past mistakes. Education and awareness campaigns aimed at debunking myths and misconceptions about formerly incarcerated individuals can help foster greater empathy and understanding within communities, creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for reintegration. The journey of reentry from prison is fraught with obstacles, from rebuilding familial relationships to securing stable employment and overcoming social stigma. However, with the right support systems and resources in place, these challenges can be surmounted, paving the way for successful reintegration and a brighter future. By addressing the root causes of recidivism and investing in programs and policies that empower returning citizens, we can create a more equitable and just society for all.  Under the Gavel, a look into the Justice System and the BIPOC community By, Shawna Turner In the intricate tapestry of the United States' legal system, the relationship between the court system and the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community is a deeply nuanced and historically rooted one. The historical context of systemic racism and oppression has cast a long shadow over the justice system, shaping the experiences of BIPOC individuals within its confines. From the era of slavery to Jim Crow segregation and the ongoing struggle against racial discrimination, the court system has often been complicit in perpetuating injustices against BIPOC communities.
Throughout history, BIPOC individuals have faced disproportionate rates of incarceration, harsher sentencing, and unequal treatment within the legal system. The legacy of discriminatory practices such as racial profiling, unequal access to legal representation, and biased sentencing policies continues to reverberate in the present day. These systemic inequalities not only undermine the principles of justice and equality but also perpetuate cycles of poverty, disenfranchisement, and social marginalization within BIPOC communities. In recent years, heightened awareness and advocacy efforts have brought issues of racial injustice and inequity within the court system to the forefront of public consciousness. The Black Lives Matter movement, along with grassroots initiatives and legal reforms, have sparked important conversations and calls for accountability within the legal system. However, systemic change remains an ongoing struggle, requiring sustained efforts to dismantle entrenched biases and address the root causes of racial disparities in law enforcement, prosecution, and sentencing. Against this backdrop, the importance of advocating for the rights and dignity of the BIPOC community within the court system cannot be overstated. It is imperative to ensure equal access to justice, fair treatment under the law, and meaningful representation for all individuals, regardless of race or ethnicity. By challenging systemic injustices, advocating for policy reforms, and amplifying the voices of marginalized communities, we can work towards building a more equitable and just legal system for generations to come. In the pursuit of justice, equity, and reconciliation, the court system must reckon with its historical legacy and strive towards a future where all individuals are treated with dignity, respect, and fairness under the law. |
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