13 Resources
Federally funded one-stop career centers offering free job search assistance, resume help, interview prep, training referrals, and unemployment services across Chicago. Walk in during business hours or call to schedule an appointment with a career counselor. Fathers who are unemployed or underemployed can access computers, job boards, and professional coaching at no cost. Multiple Chicago and suburban Cook County locations are available.
312-629-5627 · 223 W Jackson Blvd, Suite 1005, Chicago, IL 60606
One of the nation's largest nonprofits providing reentry employment services, job training, education, and supportive services for people with conviction records in Chicago and the surrounding region. Safer Foundation helps formerly incarcerated individuals secure stable employment and housing through job readiness training, transitional jobs, and employer partnerships. Fathers returning from incarceration can call 312-922-2200 to learn about current program openings and enrollment.
312-922-2200 · 571 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60661
Nonprofit connecting unemployed and underemployed Cook County residents directly with companies that have immediate hiring needs. Skills for Chicagoland's Future partners with employers to fill open positions with qualified candidates from Chicago and the suburbs. Fathers who are unemployed or earning below their potential can submit their profile online and be matched with employers actively hiring. Services are free for job seekers with no registration fees.
312-906-7200 · 191 N Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606
State agency providing unemployment insurance, job placement services, labor market information, and workforce development programs across Illinois. IDES administers unemployment benefits for laid-off workers and connects residents with job placement services through Illinois WorkNet. Fathers who have lost their job can file a claim at ides.illinois.gov, call the claims line, or visit a local IDES office for assistance navigating the benefit process.
800-244-5631 · 33 S State St, Chicago, IL 60603
Intensive one-year career training program for young adults ages 18-29 providing skills development, college credits, and corporate internships in Chicago. Year Up combines technical and professional training in fields like IT and financial services with a six-month internship at a Fortune 500 company. Young fathers aged 18-29 who are underemployed or lack a college degree can apply at yearup.org/locations/chicago-il to start the admissions process.
312-726-5300 · 223 W Jackson Blvd, Suite 400, Chicago, IL 60606
Nonprofit providing job training, career coaching, employment placement services, and work readiness programs for economic independence in Chicago and the south suburbs. Goodwill Industries of Metropolitan Chicago offers career centers where fathers can receive resume help, interview practice, and job search support at no cost. Paid work readiness training programs are also available for those with barriers to employment including criminal records.
312-212-1290 · 819 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60605
Largest workforce development system in the nation coordinating career services, job training, and employment programs through delegate agencies across Cook County. Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership administers WIOA-funded services through dozens of career centers and training providers. Fathers seeking job training funding, career counseling, or employment support can visit chicookworks.org or call 312-603-0200 to find a nearby career center and learn about available services.
312-603-0200 · 69 W Washington St, Suite 2860, Chicago, IL 60602
Workforce development initiative connecting underrepresented workers to careers in construction and building trades through training and apprenticeships in Chicago. HIRE360 works with unions and contractors to create pathways for minority and women workers into well-paying construction careers. Fathers interested in trades careers — electricians, carpenters, pipefitters — can contact HIRE360 to learn about pre-apprenticeship programs and union apprenticeship entry opportunities.
312-380-2297 · 111 E Wacker Dr, Suite 1400, Chicago, IL 60601
Chicago nonprofit providing advanced manufacturing job training, metalworking certification, and career services for low-income adults on the North Side. JARC's Careers in Manufacturing program prepares participants for well-paying factory and fabrication jobs through hands-on metalworking training and industry credentials. Fathers seeking stable, higher-wage careers in manufacturing can call or visit the Ravenswood location to learn about current program schedules and eligibility.
773-728-9769 · 4432 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60640
Chicago workforce development nonprofit preparing and placing adults facing employment barriers into meaningful jobs through coaching and training. Cara Collective serves individuals experiencing homelessness, poverty, and other barriers to stable employment with rigorous social enterprise training and direct employer connections. Fathers who are chronically unemployed or returning from incarceration can contact Cara to apply for their workforce readiness training and placement programs.
312-798-3300 · 237 S Desplaines St, Chicago, IL 60661
Provides job training, placement services, and workforce development for immigrants, refugees, and underserved populations in the Chicago area. The National Immigrant Justice Center's employment program helps new Americans with resume preparation, job search support, and professional credential recognition. Immigrant and refugee fathers in Chicago seeking employment assistance or English language support can call 312-660-1300 to learn about available programs.
312-660-1300 · 208 S LaSalle St, Suite 1818, Chicago, IL 60604
Workforce development organization providing job training, career coaching, and employer connections for adults seeking employment across the Chicago area. National Able Network specializes in serving adults 55+ and low-income job seekers with individual career coaching, resume preparation, and referrals to subsidized employment programs. Fathers seeking job search support or older workers re-entering the workforce can call 312-994-4300 or visit the Randolph Street office.
312-994-4300 · 564 W Randolph St, Suite 200, Chicago, IL 60661
National nonprofit with Chicago presence providing bilingual employment services, skills training, and job placement for underserved communities. SER Jobs for Progress serves Spanish-speaking and bilingual job seekers on Chicago's West and Southwest sides with resume assistance, job readiness workshops, and employer connections. Fathers who are Spanish-dominant or bilingual and seeking employment can call 312-890-0688 to learn about services and enrollment.
312-890-0688 · 3948 W 26th St, Suite 213, Chicago, IL 60623