About Unlock Potential
Starting in 2022, the Responsible Business Initiative for Justice, with support made possible by the Walmart.org Center for Racial Equity, has developed and operated Unlock Potential. This first-of-its-kind hiring initiative was designed to equip and empower companies to create life-changing career opportunities for opportunity youth — deflecting them from the justice system and confronting economic immobility at the source.
After refining the program over two pilot rounds — working with 12 employers and 40 community-based organizations (CBOs) across six states — RBIJ is proud to release the “Employer Guide to Hiring Opportunity Youth.” This comprehensive resource showcases our collective impact, featuring case studies, lessons learns, and practical steps for employers to adopt similar hiring initiatives.
What’s Next? Our Work Continues!
Now, with renewed support from Sam's Club, RBIJ will further scale its work helping employers expand career opportunities for individuals at impacted by or at increased risk of justice involvement — including opportunity youth, veterans, and people with criminal records.
RBIJ will continue applying its learnings into practical, replicable tools and action opportunities that enable companies to advocate for policy reforms and strengthen hiring practices that reduce employment barriers.