Will Hobby Lobby Hire Felons?

When it comes to finding employment after serving time in prison, felons often face numerous challenges. One of the most significant hurdles is convincing potential employers to give them a second chance. Hobby Lobby, a popular arts and crafts retail chain, is known for its strong religious beliefs and conservative values. This has led to speculation about whether the company is willing to hire individuals with a criminal record. In this article, we will explore the hiring practices of Hobby Lobby and examine the possibilities for felons seeking employment with the company.

The Background of Hobby Lobby

Hobby Lobby was founded in 1972 by David Green and has since grown into one of the largest privately-owned arts and crafts retailers in the United States. The company operates over 900 stores across the country and employs thousands of individuals. Hobby Lobby is known for its wide range of products, including art supplies, home decor, fabrics, and more.

Hobby Lobby’s Hiring Policies

While Hobby Lobby does not publicly disclose its specific hiring policies regarding felons, it is important to note that the company is an equal opportunity employer. This means that they do not discriminate against individuals based on their criminal history. However, it is crucial to consider that each store manager has the authority to make hiring decisions based on their own discretion and the needs of their location.

It is worth mentioning that Hobby Lobby has faced legal issues in the past regarding its employment practices. In 2017, the company was fined $3 million by the U.S. Department of Justice for illegally importing thousands of ancient artifacts from Iraq. This incident raised questions about the company’s commitment to ethical practices and adherence to the law.

Case Studies and Examples

While there is limited information available regarding Hobby Lobby’s specific stance on hiring felons, there are examples of other companies in the retail industry that have implemented programs to provide opportunities for individuals with criminal records. One such example is Walmart, which launched the “Second Chance” program in 2010. This initiative aimed to hire individuals who had been convicted of non-violent crimes and were struggling to find employment.

Another case study is Home Depot, which has a long-standing commitment to hiring individuals with criminal records. The company believes in giving people a second chance and has implemented a program called “The Homer Fund” to support associates facing financial hardships, including those with criminal backgrounds.

Statistics on Felon Employment

Understanding the broader landscape of felon employment can provide valuable insights into the possibilities for individuals seeking jobs at Hobby Lobby. According to the National Employment Law Project, approximately 70 million adults in the United States have a criminal record. This staggering number highlights the importance of creating opportunities for these individuals to reintegrate into society.

Research conducted by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) found that 82% of managers are willing to hire individuals with criminal records. This indicates a growing acceptance and recognition of the potential contributions that felons can make in the workforce.

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1. Does Hobby Lobby conduct background checks?

  Hobby Lobby does conduct background checks on potential employees. However, the specific criteria they use to evaluate candidates with criminal records is not publicly disclosed.

• 2. Are there any specific felonies that Hobby Lobby does not hire for?

  There is no publicly available information regarding specific felonies that would automatically disqualify an individual from employment at Hobby Lobby. Each hiring decision is made on a case-by-case basis.

• 3. Does Hobby Lobby have any programs to support felons?

  There is no information available regarding specific programs or initiatives implemented by Hobby Lobby to support felons in their employment journey.

• 4. Can felons work in management positions at Hobby Lobby?

  While it is possible for felons to work in management positions at Hobby Lobby, the decision ultimately lies with the store manager and their assessment of the candidate’s qualifications and suitability for the role.

• 5. Are there any success stories of felons being hired by Hobby Lobby?

  Due to the lack of publicly available information, it is challenging to find specific success stories of felons being hired by Hobby Lobby. However, it is important to note that many companies, including those in the retail industry, have successfully employed individuals with criminal records.

• 6. What can felons do to increase their chances of being hired by Hobby Lobby?

  Felons can take several steps to increase their chances of being hired by Hobby Lobby or any other employer:

  • Focus on personal and professional development during incarceration, such as obtaining certifications or completing educational programs.
  • Build a strong resume that highlights relevant skills and experiences.
  • Be honest and upfront about their criminal record during the application and interview process.
  • Seek support from organizations that specialize in assisting individuals with criminal records in finding employment.

Summary

While Hobby Lobby does not publicly disclose its specific policies regarding the hiring of felons, the company is an equal opportunity employer. However, it is important to consider that each store manager has the authority to make hiring decisions based on their own discretion. Case studies of other companies in the retail industry, such as Walmart and Home Depot, demonstrate that it is possible for individuals with criminal records to find employment in this sector.

Statistics on felon employment indicate a growing acceptance and recognition of the potential contributions that felons can make in the workforce. However, it is crucial for felons to take proactive steps to increase their chances of being hired, such as focusing on personal and professional development, building a strong resume, and seeking support from specialized organizations.

Ultimately, while the question of whether Hobby Lobby will hire felons cannot be definitively answered, it is clear that opportunities exist for individuals with criminal records to find employment and rebuild their lives.