Second Chance South Carolina

Second Chance Hiring Featured Employers

These logos are just here for examples at this time, these are NOT real businesses.

Click to apply:

START HERE

If everything feels loud right now, start small and stay consistent. This page is built to help you handle the first basics (ID, Social Security card, phone/email, and support) so you can move faster with jobs and services in South Carolina. Use the checklist to get organized, then tap the buttons below for the exact links you need—one step at a time.

• Replace / Get SC ID
• Replace Social Security Card (SSA)
• Birth Certificate
• Free Phone+Internet Help (Lifeline)
• Reentry Program Near You
• Know Your Rights: Background Checks + Jobs (EEOC)

Start here: your first moves
If everything feels loud, start small and steady. These steps help most people get traction fast.Checklist (bullets):
• Get your ID + documents in order (ID, Social Security card, birth certificate if needed)
• Set up a reliable phone number + email for applications
• Make a one-page resume (simple, clean, honest)
• Pick one job direction for 30 days (trade, warehouse, food service, customer service, cleaning, etc.)
• Build a basic weekly routine: sleep, job search, support, movement
Next: Tap the buttons/links above to follow these steps in order. Start with ID, then Social Security, then phone/email help if you need it. Small wins stack up fast.

Jobs + Training (South Carolina)

Text: These links are solid starting points for job leads, workforce centers, and second-chance support.Tiny note: Apply early. Apply often. Track everything.

• SC Works:Returning Citizens(Jobs)
• DEW: Second Chance
• CareerOneStop: ReEntry Program Finder (South Carolina)
• Employers:Fair Chance Hiring

What To Do Today)

1. Pick one job path for the next 30 days.
2. Apply to 5 jobs today and write them down.
3. Practice the interview script twice (out loud).
4. If legal help applies, check expungement/pardon options.
5. Come back tomorrow and repeat.

• Interview Scripts

Second Chance Hiring Featured Employers

These logos are just here for examples at this time, these are NOT real businesses.

Click to apply:

Legal Help South Carolina

Legal stuff can feel like a maze. These links help you figure out what’s possible in South Carolina and where to get legit help.

PARDON + RIGHTS RESTORATION

A pardon can help you move forward by showing rehabilitation and, in some situations, restoring certain rights. It won’t erase your record automatically, but it can make a real difference for jobs, housing, and licensing. If you’re not sure what you qualify for, start with the official application info and then reach out for legit help

• SC Courts: Expungement Application Process
• SC Legal Services: Expungement Help
• Root & Rebound: Roadmap to Reentry (SC Legal Guide)
• SC DPPPS: Pardon Application

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS (AND PROTECT YOURSELF

Legal stuff gets confusing fast — and people get taken advantage of. Use official sites when you can, double-check details, and don’t pay anyone just to “tell you what to do” if they aren’t legitimate legal help. If something feels off, pause and verify before you submit forms or money.

• FTC: Background Check Rights (FCRA)

• SLED: Check Your SC Criminal Record (CATCH)

FREE / LOW-COST LEGAL HELP

You don’t have to figure it out alone. These resources are meant to help people who can’t afford a private attorney. Start here if you need guidance with expungement, pardons, reentry issues, or understanding paperwork.Good places to start:
• SC Legal Services (civil legal help)
• Local legal clinics (sometimes scheduled events)
• Law school clinics (if available)
• 2-1-1 (connects you to local services)

• SC Bar: Find Free/Low-Cost Legal Help

WHEN TO CALL A LAWYER (RED FLAGS)

Some situations are too risky to guess on. If any of these apply, it’s worth getting real legal help first so you don’t waste time or accidentally make things worse.Get help if you have:
• A pending case or active warrants
• Probation/parole issues or violations
• Anything involving domestic violence or family court complications
• Charges that could affect immigration status
• Confusing paperwork, deadlines, or you’re being asked to sign something you don’t understand

GET WEEKLY HELP (SOUTH CAROLINA)

Reentry gets easier when you handle the basics in the right order. This page is a weekly “resource hub” you can come back to anytime — housing + stability, transportation, benefits, and support programs. Pick the section you need today and use the buttons for trusted links.

HOUSING + STABILITY

If you’re trying to work, you need a stable place to land. Start with 211 for urgent help, then use SC Housing tools to search affordable rentals and learn about voucher programs and housing options. If you’re facing eviction, check HUD resources and local counseling options.

• Find Help Near You (SC 211)
• Search Affordable Rentals
• Housing Choice Vouchers
• SC Housing:Renters ( Start Here )

Transportation

Transportation can make or break a job. If you need a bus route, a ride program, or local transit options, start with the SC DOT transit provider list for your county and then check your city’s transit system. If you’re stuck, 211 can also point you to local ride help and programs.

• SC Transit Providers (Find Your County)
• Columbia/Midlands Bus ( The COMET )
• Charleston Bus (CARTA)
• Greenville Bus (GreenLink)
• Need Ride Help? (SC 211)

BENEFITS + BASICS

If you’re short on food, healthcare, or cash assistance, start with the official state portals. Apply online when you can (it’s fastest), then follow up with your county office if you get stuck. For energy/utility help, LIHEAP is handled through local agencies — use the county finder to get the right office.

• DSS Benefits Portal
• SNAP(Food)-How To Apply—
• TANF(Cash Assistance)
• Healthy Connections Medicaid
• Utility Help(LIHEAP Info)
• Find Your County Help Office (OEO)

REENTRY PROGRAMS + SUPPORT

Reentry isn’t just “get a job” — it’s support, training, and guidance that keeps you moving forward. Use the state Second Chance resources, find reentry programs near you, and check the resource guide for South Carolina services. If you’re still connected to SCDC or supervision programs, use official reentry services and tools first.

• Second Chance Resource Guide (Official PDF)
• Second Chance Resource Guide Page (Providers/Info)
• SCDC Programs + Reentry Services
• Reentry Planning Toolkit (Root & Rebound SC)

You’re not behind—you’re rebuilding. Take this one step at a time, use the resources that fit your situation, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you get stuck, start with 211 or a local reentry program and let someone walk you through the next move.

EMPLOYERS (South Carolina)

Fair-chance hiring works best with structure. If you’re hiring in South Carolina and open to returning citizens, we can list your openings and share clear expectations with applicants.Hiring with a second-chance mindset is good for business. When you’re open to returning citizens, you widen your talent pool, reduce turnover, and often find workers who are serious about stability and showing up every day. Second Chance South Carolina helps you set clear expectations up front, connect with motivated applicants, and build a stronger local workforce, while showing your community that your company believes in fresh starts and real opportunity.

What Featured Employers get:

• Free basic listing (reviewed + posted)
• Featured monthly $2.99 (top spot + logo)
• Lifetime featured $49 (one-time, no renewals)
•Fair-chance friendly badge
•Removal anytime on request
• (Optional): Social shoutout (will feature your ad on SecondChanceSouthCarolina’s Facebook page AT LEAST twice weekly)

• Become a Featured Employer

• Monthly Featured Employer ( $2.99 )

• Lifetime Featured Employer ( $49.00 )

Support (South Carolina)
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone. This page is for real help—someone to talk to, resources near you, and the next small step. If you’re in danger or think you might hurt yourself, use the crisis options first.If it’s urgent (right now):
• Call 911 if you’re in immediate danger.
• Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) — 24/7, free, confidential.
• If you can’t talk, you can chat online at 988lifeline.org.Talk to someone today:
You don’t have to “have it all together” to reach out. If you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, anger, cravings, or just feeling stuck—start here.Find help near you (South Carolina):
Use these links to locate mental health care, substance use support, housing/food help, and crisis services in your area.Quick note: Informational only. If you’re in danger, call 911. If you feel unsafe with yourself, contact 988.

Script 1 (simple + strong)

“Thanks for having me. I’m someone who shows up on time, learns fast, and takes pride in doing things the right way. I’ve built strong habits around consistency and communication, and I’m looking for a job where I can work hard, grow, and be a reliable part of the team.”Script 2 (with skills):
“I’m a dependable worker with experience in [warehouse/customer service/food service/trades]. I’m strong with [teamwork, punctuality, following directions, learning systems]. I’m excited about this role because it fits what I’m good at, and I’m ready to contribute right away.”

Why do you want this job?Script:

“I want this job because it’s a steady role where hard work matters. I like clear expectations, staying busy, and being part of a team. I’m looking for a long-term opportunity where I can grow and be someone you can count on.”

Why should we hire you?Script:

“You should hire me because I’m reliable, coachable, and consistent. If you tell me what ‘good’ looks like, I’ll hit that standard. I take feedback well, I don’t bring drama, and I’m focused on keeping a job and building a future.”

StrengthsScript:

“My strengths are showing up, staying organized, and finishing what I start. I’m also good at staying calm under pressure and communicating if something’s unclear so mistakes don’t happen

Weakness (safe answer)Script:

“One thing I’ve worked on is asking questions sooner instead of trying to figure everything out alone. Now I’d rather clarify early so I do the job correctly and keep things moving.”

Gaps in employment / rough patch (clean + professional)Script:

“I had a period where I was dealing with personal and legal responsibilities. That’s handled now, and I’m in a stable place. I’m ready for steady work, and I’m focused on keeping long-term employment.”

If they ask about a record (3 options)

Option A (short + confident):
“Yes — there’s something in my background. I take responsibility for it, and it’s in the past. I’ve made changes and I’m focused on steady work and moving forward. I can also share what I’ve done since then to stay on track.”Option B (a little more detail, still respectful):
“Yes. I made a mistake, and I own that. Since then I’ve been focused on stability — routine, work readiness, and staying consistent. I’m looking for an employer who values who I am now and the work I’ll put in.”Option C (pivot to reliability):
“Yes, and I understand why you’d ask. What I can promise is this: you’l l get someone who shows up, follows policy, communicates, and works hard. I’m not here to repeat the past — I’m here to build.”

“Do you have reliable transportation?”Script:

“Yes. I have reliable transportation and a plan to be here on time every shift.”(If not perfect:)
“I have a reliable plan. I use [ride schedule/bus route/family support] and I always build in extra time so I’m early.”⸻“What are your availability and schedule limits?”Script:
“I’m available [days/times]. I’m flexible when needed, and I can communicate ahead of time if anything changes.”

“Tell me about a time you handled conflict”

Script:
“I made a mistake by [small example: ‘misreading a label’ / ‘missing a step’]. I owned it, fixed it, and asked how to prevent it. After that, I started double-checking my steps and I haven’t repeated it.”⸻“Where do you see yourself in 1–2 years?”Script:
“In 1–2 years, I want to be a trusted employee here — consistent, trained well, and possibly helping train new people. I’m looking for stability and growth.”⸻

Closing Question (always ask this)Script:

Script:
“Before we wrap up, is there anything about my background or experience that I can clarify to help you feel confident moving forward?”Plus one more:
“What does success look like in the first 30 days for this role?”

Final Closing (after interview)Script:

“Thank you for your time. I’m really interested in the role. I’m ready to work, and I’d appreciate the opportunity to prove myself.”