Events.
RBIJ works with our business and advocacy partners to participate in events across the country. See below for a sample of the events we have, and will be, attending. To learn more about speaking at an event, email info@rbij.org.
800 Years of Justice: Magna Carta to UN SDG 16
Marking the 800th anniversary of the 1225 Magna Carta, this launch event will explore the evolution of justice and the enduring importance of the rule of law. Linking historical legal traditions with contemporary justice goals, this session will consider what progress has been made under UN SDG 16 “justice for all” in its first 10 years and what can be achieved in the next five years. RBIJ's CEO, Maha Jweied, will be speaking.
Purpose in Profit: A Conversation About Food, Justice, and Second Chances
Purpose in Profit: A Conversation About Food, Justice, and Second Chances
Thursday, Nov. 6 | 6:30 p.m. ET | Café Momentum Atlanta
What does it look like when business is driven by purpose — and when justice, opportunity, and profitability go hand in hand?
"Purpose in Profit" is a conversation bringing together Muhammad Abdul-Hadi, a justice-impacted entrepreneur and acclaimed restaurateur whose business model at Down North Pizza in Philadelphia centers on Second Chance Hiring, and Dr. Krystal Redman, a public health strategist and social justice expert working to create fairer systems and stronger communities.
Hosted at Café Momentum Atlanta — a celebrated second-chance employer in Atlanta's restaurant scene — the dialogue will explore Abdul-Hadi's new cookbook-memoir, "We the Pizza: Slangin’ Pies and Savin’ Lives," which tells the story about how Down North fulfills its mission to educate and support the formerly incarcerated while serving dope food. Together, Abdul-Hadi and Redman will unpack what Down North's success teaches us about how purpose-driven businesses can thrive while transforming lives.
Guests can enjoy Café Momentum’s full dinner menu, as well as have the opportunity to order Down North’s award-winning pizza. Signed cookbooks will be available for purchase onsite.
Meet Our Speakers
Muhammad Abdul-Hadi
Founder and Owner, Down North Pizza
Muhammad Abdul-Hadi is the founder and owner of Down North Pizza, a mission-driven restaurant that exclusively hires formerly incarcerated individuals and serves up pies with a purpose in Philadelphia. His new cookbook-memoir, "We the Pizza," tells the story about how the restaurant fulfills its mission to educate and support people returning from prison while serving dope food, and features over 65 recipes for pizza, wings, and more. Abdul-Hadi has won the James Beard Foundation's leadership award, and he and the Down North team have been featured in the New York Times, The Washington Post, Bon Appetit Magazine, and more.
Dr. Krystal Redman
Public Health Strategist
Dr. Krystal Redman is a public health strategist, practitioner, organizer, health executive, and speaker whose work bridges medicine, social justice, and public health through a systems approach. Drawing on two decades of experience bridging health and justice, Dr. Redman helps organizations build purpose-driven systems that reduce barriers and expand opportunity for those historically excluded.
From Service to Second Chances: The Role of Business in Veteran Reentry
[Webinar] From Service to Second Chances: The Role of Business in Veteran Reentry
Tuesday, Nov. 18 | 1:30 - 2:15 p.m. ET | Webinar
Without strong transition support after military service, too many U.S. veterans find themselves entangled in the criminal justice system. One in three of the country’s 19 million veterans report having been arrested at least once in their lifetime.
These touches with the justice system can create significant roadblocks for veterans working to rebuild their lives — and critically, their careers — after serving the country. Outdated corporate hiring practices that overlook people with criminal records can lock many veterans out of the workforce, not only depriving them of opportunity but depriving employers of dedicated and skilled talent.
In “From Service to Second Chances: The Role of Business in Veteran Reentry,” attendees will learn why businesses can be a force for solutions — creating opportunities that honor veterans and build stronger, more inclusive teams. Led by business leaders and veterans, this conversation will feature firsthand stories that challenge stigma, deepen understanding, and reveal how veterans bring resilience, discipline, and untapped potential to the workplace.
What you’ll learn:
Why veterans face unique risks for justice involvement — and the lasting workforce barriers that can result
Practical employer strategies, supports, and Second Chance Hiring pathways that strengthen the workforce
Advocacy resources and partnership opportunities that help rebuild veterans’ lives
Insights from veterans’ lived experience that combat stigma and deepen understanding
Meet Our Speakers
Brigadier General David “Mac” MacEwen
Director, Veterans Justice Commission, Council on Criminal Justice
A retired brigadier general in the U.S. Army, David “Mac” MacEwen manages the work of the Council on Criminal Justice’s Veterans Justice Commission.
MacEwen’s last military assignment was as the 59th Adjutant General of the Army. In that role, he was responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Army’s human resource programs, providing support to its 1.1 million active and reserve soldiers and their families. His responsibilities included oversight of the Army Transition program, Army Education program, and the Army Casualty Program. During more than 33 years in uniform, MacEwen served tours of duty in multiple countries, commanded units at every echelon, and held key staff positions in the joint force. Since his retirement, MacEwen has focused on veterans’ issues and advocated for people affected by food insecurity. He also serves as an adjunct professor at Everglades University, where he teaches crisis and disaster management.
MacEwen holds a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration from Clarion University, a Bachelor of Science in crisis and disaster management from Everglades University, and a Master of Arts in national security and strategic studies from the U.S. Naval War College. He is also a graduate of the Command and General Staff College and the Naval War College, and attended the University of North Carolina’s Kenan-Flagler Business School Executive Development Program.
Derek O. Small, USN (Ret.)
Director of Military Programs, National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation
Derek O. Small, USN (Ret.) serves as the Director of Military Programs at the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF). In this role, Derek leads strategic initiatives that connect transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses with meaningful career opportunities in the restaurant, food service, and hospitality industry.
A proud U.S. Navy veteran with over two decades of honorable service, Derek brings extensive leadership experience from his military career, where he managed complex operations, guided diverse teams, and championed professional development programs. His military background instilled in him a deep commitment to service, mentorship, and workforce readiness.
At NRAEF, Derek oversees advanced programs such as AMPED (Advanced Military Professional Educational Development), ACTP (Advanced Culinary Training Program), and SkillBridge, ensuring they deliver impactful training and employment pathways for the military-connected population. He collaborates with industry partners, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies to expand opportunities and strengthen the talent pipeline.
During his distinguished Navy career, Derek earned multiple awards, including the Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, and the Combat Action Ribbon, recognizing his exceptional leadership, operational excellence, and dedication to mission success.
Derek is passionate about empowering veterans and their families to thrive in civilian careers. His work reflects a dedication to building bridges between the military and hospitality sectors, fostering economic mobility, and creating sustainable futures for those who have served our nation.
Caz Walcott
Director of Inclusive Hiring, Responsible Business Initiative for Justice (RBIJ)
Caz leads RBIJ’s first and second chance hiring programs. In addition to leading the Inclusive Hiring team, her responsibilities also include collaborating with community-based organizations, advocacy leaders, and social services providers.
Previously, Caz worked at various nonprofits, including as the program manager at the Vera Institute of Justice’s Redefining Public Safety team, the Director of Employment Services for Westhab’s NYC and Westchester County shelter and community-based employment programs, and as Director of Fathers Count Family Services of Westchester’s federally-funded Responsible Fatherhood Program. She received a Citation from Mayor Mike Spano for her contribution to Westchester County and the City of Yonkers and a Certificate of Recognition from the Senate of the State of New York for Exemplary Service to the community. While in the UK, Caz worked as a probation officer for HM Prison & Probation Service and as a youth social worker with Camden Children & Family Services.
Driving Impact and Profit: A 360° View of CSR Where Business Success Meets Lasting Impact
Join an exclusive gathering of CEOs and executives to explore how Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is transforming both communities and organizations. This invitation-only conference will showcase powerful insights, “off-the-record” peer-to-peer dialogue, and actionable strategies that connect purpose to performance.
2025 NRWC Annual Conference
NRWC looks forward to again bringing together some of the leading voices from the reentry workforce field: business leaders, practitioners, government representatives, advocates, and other stakeholders. Join us in Pittsburgh as we seek to advance equity, elevate best practices, and promote fair chance hiring. Regardless of your role within the reentry workforce ecosystem, this convening is for you! Visit NRWCs Conference page for more information.
RBIJ’s CEO Maha Jweied, Director of Policy and Advocacy Maggie O’Donnell, and Senior Manager of Policy and Advocacy Morgan Southers will be speaking at NRWC’s conference.
From Day One: Live 2025: Austin
People leaders face a welter of challenges right now, from employee disengagement to financial pressure to policy uncertainty from Washington. Yet HR professionals can seize the moment as an opportunity for transformative change, guided by positive values and an investment in their people. Companies will be primed for future growth if they embrace an environment of trust, continuous learning, advanced technology, purposeful leadership, data-driven insights, and a skills-based talent strategy. In our conference of HR leaders and colleagues, we’ll explore breakthroughs in thinking about how to make work fulfilling, create a sense of community, help employees increase their competencies and performance, and produce better managers. You’ll discover the most innovative approaches in such fields as talent acquisition, employee benefits and total rewards, learning and development, employee engagement, AI and HR technology, and inclusion and belonging.
State of the District & Region Conference
Save the date for our annual conference on September 22, 2025 which features panelists and speakers including prominent business representatives and leaders, health directors, higher education administrators, workforce development leaders, regional and local elected officials.
Whether you’re a business leader, policymaker, nonprofit executive, or entrepreneur, this is your opportunity to stay ahead of the trends and insights shaping the future of DC’s business community.
Waffles & Workforce: Gwinnett Economic Development
Are you struggling to hire, train, or keep the right people?
Join Gwinnett Economic Development for breakfast and solutions at this employer-focused event that brings together the partners, programs, and resources that can help.
Solve issues like talent shortages, skill gaps, and high turnover. Gain direct access to local and regional experts who offer hiring support, workforce training, talent development, and business services — all aligned to help you attract top talent, retain your team, and upskill for the future. You'll also get to network with top business leaders, premier workforce partners, and community champions committed to your success.
NRAEF Hospitality Pathways Conference
For the third annual Hospitality Pathways Conference (HPC), the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation will welcome more than 200 workforce development stakeholders and partners from Justice Agencies, Community-Based Organizations, State Restaurant Associations from 10 states of HOPES (AK, CO, CT, DE, IL, MI, OH, PA, TX, & VA), staff from CBOs and SRAs implementing Restaurant Ready in 35 states, federal agency partners, industry partners, subject matter experts, and Foundation staff.
Register here.
Criminal Justice Mental Health Summit
Join us in Nevada for more than a meeting – CJMHS is a movement where changemakers come together to learn about emerging research at the intersection of mental health and the criminal-legal system.
✅ Discuss a better path forward: a conversation on rehabilitation, reentry, and reaffirming community safety.
✅ Learn from personal experiences related to mental health and the legal system.
The Second Chance Advantage: Manufacturing Success Stories and a New Tool to Drive Adoption
Envoy’s new Fair Chance Navigator builds on over a decade of experience helping employers adopt successful second chance hiring practices. Since early 2021, Envoy, a social impact advisory firm specializing in organizational growth, philanthropic consulting and fair chance employment, has partnered with the Manufacturing Institute to support its second chance initiatives. Through strategy development, direct engagement and practical tools, Envoy has helped equip manufacturers with the resources needed to build a broader and more accessible workforce. Newly developed in 2025, the Fair Chance Navigator tool provides step-by-step guidance to assess current efforts, identify barriers and implement strategies that support hiring justice impacted individuals. In our July Solution Series event, “The Second Chance Advantage: Manufacturing Success Stories and a New Tool to Drive Adoption” we will explore success stories from manufacturers like Union Pacific, Xylem, and Komatsu.
Register here.
Clean Slate Massachusetts: Criminal Justice Reform Caucus
Join us virtually or at the Massachusetts State House to learn about the business and economic case for clean slate laws in MA and then meet with legislators about co-sponsoring the bills.
✅ Discuss the economic benefits of clean-slate laws.
✅ Advocate directly through MA legislators.
CEO Workforce Forum: Investing in U.S. Workers
On Tuesday, June 17, 2025, Business Roundtable hosted the CEO Workforce Forum: Investing in U.S. Workers. The event explored how large employers are creating new pathways for workers, including efforts to expand opportunity in skilled trades and manufacturing roles.
JustUs Ideas Week
JustUs Ideas Week is a first-of-its-kind ideas accelerator rooted in connecting impacted individuals, key changemakers, innovative experiences, and bold action
Through headline discussions, startup business pitch showcases, podcasts, Hackathons, and interactive sessions, participants will explore new ways to address the challenges facing justice-impacted communities and collaborate on innovative solutions.
CSI's 2025 Convening
Join us in Chicago for two days of connection, strategy, and action as we mark five years of progress at CSI and prepare for a lifetime of impact for Clean Slate’s work. At this year’s convening, you’ll have the opportunity to:
✅ Engage with national leaders, advocates, and Directly Impacted individuals.
✅ Join learning tracks on strategy, implementation, messaging, and capacity building.
✅ Gain hands-on skills through interactive workshops and expert panels.
✅ Celebrate five years of impact at a special reception.
Register here.
W&J Summit 2025
Join business leaders, policy experts and justice advocates to explore how corporate action on justice reform can make the workforce healthier, more resilient and ready for the future.
Learn more at: https://www.workforcejusticesummit.org/2025-summit
Talent Beyond Barriers: A Business Exchange on Second Chance Hiring
Join the Second Chance Hiring Alliance, the Greater Washington DC Black Chamber of Commerce and the Responsible Business Initiative for Justice on Tuesday, April 29 from 2 to 6:30pm for “Talent Beyond Barriers: A Business Exchange on Second Chance Hiring.”
This exciting event celebrating Second Chance Month will include panels, expert speakers, and technical assistance/coaching for D.C.-based business owners and employers looking to hire justice-impacted workers. There will also be time for networking and a reception with other attendees including business leaders, employment professionals, policymakers, justice-impacted residents, and workforce development programs.
Reentry Simulation by Social Purpose Corrections + Awake Window & Door Co.
Join us for a unique opportunity to experience what it's like to re-enter society after incarceration, led by those with lived experience.
Awake Window & Door Co and Social Purpose Corrections have teamed up to organize a simulation giving business leaders and community partners a glimpse into the challenges individuals face upon release.
After the simulation, network with others over a delicious dinner.
Clean Slate Champions: A Community Call for Second Chances
April is Second Chance Month, and The Clean Slate Initiative (CSI) is leading the way in celebrating the transformative power of second chances. By sealing the past, we’re unlocking new doors to opportunity through Clean Slate legislation — and we want YOU to be part of this effort!
Join us for a special community call where we’ll bring together the Clean Slate network to share powerful insights on the impact of Clean Slate policies at both the state and federal levels. Whether you’re active in this work, directly impacted by this issue, or a supporter of Clean Slate, we want you there — this is your chance to connect, learn, and help build momentum so we can all play a role in advancing second chances.
Sheena Meade, CEO of The Clean Slate Initiative, will be joining Clean Slate champions and a powerhouse panel of experts, who will share inspiring stories, valuable knowledge, and exclusive opportunities to take meaningful action in celebrating and supporting Clean Slate.
Breaking Barriers: The Fight for Fair Occupational Licensure
Join us for a 30-minute LinkedIn Live conversation exploring how outdated occupational licensing laws create barriers to employment for skilled workers with records. You'll hear a firsthand story from someone who has navigated these challenges and learn about policy solutions to strengthen the workforce and expand access to opportunity. Featuring experts from JFF's Center for Justice & Economic Advancement and the Responsible Business Initiative for Justice, this discussion will highlight the economic and business case for licensing reform.
Learn more and register: https://www.linkedin.com/events/breakingbarriers-thefightforfai7310006380868849665/theater/
Second Chance Conference: "In Their Shoes" (A Reentry Simulation)
Join us for a transformative experience! Participate in our Reentry Simulation to gain a profound understanding of the challenges faced by formerly incarcerated individuals. Over a 2-hour session, you'll immerse yourself in the journey to self-sufficiency, navigating the barriers that contribute to feelings of helplessness. This eye-opening activity will simulate a month in the life of someone recently released from prison, highlighting the struggles of fulfilling court obligations while managing day-to-day life.
The Economic Benefits of Expungement: Building Momentum from the Expungement Reform Act of 2025 to Clean Slate
The Center for Criminal Justice Reform (CCJR) at the University of Baltimore Law School invites you to a Town Hall event, "The Economic Benefits of Expungement: Building Momentum from the Expungement Reform Act of 2025 to Clean Slate." This event will bring together community members, business leaders, policymakers, and advocates including directly impacted leaders to celebrate progress in removing barriers to record clearance in Maryland, discuss what’s next in creating employment opportunities for people with criminal records, and highlight the economic benefits of expungement.
The Town Hall will take place on Monday, April 14th from 5:30-8:30 PM in the University of Baltimore Law School's Moot Court Room (1401 N. Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21201).
Barriers to Bridges: Clean Slate Laws & Public Health
April is Second Chance Month and April 7-13, 2025, is National Public Health Week, the perfect time to explore how “clean slate” laws promote health, economic stability, and racial equity. Criminal records create lasting barriers to employment, housing, and healthcare—key social determinants of health. A Clean Slate law, which automates record sealing as soon as someone is eligible, is a powerful tool for reducing inequities and strengthening communities.
Register for the webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_kPkdEnx2Re68faUhFZgy3w#/registration
National Returning Citizens Conference
This transformative two-day event kicks off on the evening of Wednesday, April 9th, with a Welcome Reception. Thursday, April 10th, and Friday, April 11th, will include dynamic plenary sessions, coalition-building efforts, and an awards banquet recognizing individuals in the region making a difference in reentry work. Through keynote addresses and engaging break-out sessions, we will share valuable resources, effective strategies, and inspiring success stories that empower individuals to overcome the challenges of reentry. Together, we will celebrate progress, advocate for reform, and work toward a future that embraces second chances.
Learn more: https://nrcconference.org/
Delaware 4th Annual State Agency Career Fair
Looking for a place to work where you can do good for your community while doing well for yourself? Network with state agencies and learn about opportunities that are available now.
Register to attend this event here: 4th Annual State Agency Career Fair
Book Talk: Sentencing, Second Chances, & Justice with Judge Frederic Block
Join us on April 1 from 6 to 7 pm, (reception to follow) for an engaging conversation with U.S. District Court Judge Frederic Block and Dean David Meyer. Block will discuss his latest book, "A Second Chance: A Federal Judge Decides Who Deserves It," which offers a rare glimpse behind the bench as he weighs compassionate release cases under the First Step Act.
RSVP here: https://registration.brooklaw.edu/book-talk/frederic-block
2025 Second Chance Forum: Creating Opportunities for People, Employers, and Communities
The Second Chance Forum will bring together employers, academics, business leaders, policymakers and justice-impacted thought leaders for discussions on creating pathways to sustainable employment for individuals with criminal records.
Learn more here: https://www.darden.virginia.edu/ibis/events/second-chance
Talent Forward: Advancing an Engaged, Agile, and Resilient Workforce
At Talent Forward, we’ll dive into key issues and share the latest solutions on pressing topics such as:
What barriers to workforce participation are the top priorities to solve? Where are we stifling growth, opportunity, and prosperity?
How can we ensure learning, skills development, and career-pathing meets the needs of both employers and individuals and their families?
When disruption happens, how resilient of an economy, workforce, and culture have we created?\
Learn more and register: https://events.uschamberfoundation.org/talentforward2025/6191528?ref=connect01&utm_source=sfmc&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=&utm_term=20250128_Foundation_The_Connector_January&utm_content=1/31/2025
Talent Management Reloaded USA
At Talent Management Reloaded USA, HR and talent management professionals will come together to showcase cutting-edge strategies, share inspiring success stories and explore innovative tools to elevate talent acquisition, leadership development, and employee engagement. Discover how to ignite a culture of innovation, drive transformation, and shape the future of work for thriving, empowered teams.
Join the most dynamic and content-rich networking event for talent leaders, unlocking the potential of tomorrow’s workforce in the USA!
Learn more and register: https://talent-management-reloaded.us/
Beyond the Bars Conference 2025
The Beyond the Bars Conference is an annual student-driven interdisciplinary conference on mass incarceration held at Columbia University. Each year the conference brings together students, faculty, activists, advocates, practitioners, those who have experienced and/or been impacted by incarceration, community members and more to connect, galvanize, and deepen the work of building justice and equity and ending mass incarceration.
Learn more and register: https://centerforjustice.columbia.edu/content/beyond-bars-conference