Services and Support

In addition to job search support, unemployed workers may need other services and support. Specific resources exist for ex-offenders, people with disabilities, seniors and veterans searching for jobs.

Quicklinks: Services | Ex-Offenders | People with Disabilities | Seniors | Veterans

Services

Get the Services You Need »
(Illinois workNet)
There are many services available to help Illinois residents support themselves and their families in a time of need.

Find additional resources on the Chicago Public Library’s list of commonly requested Government and Social Services.

Ex-Offenders

Employment Services for Ex-Offenders »
(Chicago Workforce Centers)
A list of organizations that work with ex-offenders in programs that offer job readiness training and skill development alongside support services that promote self-sufficiency.

Re-Entry Service Employment Program »
(Illinois Department of Employment Security)
This program helps formerly incarcerated people or anyone with a criminal conviction with finding employment.

Re-Entry Services »
(Illinois workNet)
Information for ex-offenders including where to find a resource room, job fairs, workshops, waivers and much more.

People with Disabilities

Employment Services for People with Disabilities »
(City of Chicago Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities)
Through the Work Incentives Planning and Assistance Program, the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities provides benefits planning and assistance to Supplemental Security Income and Social Security Disability Insurance beneficiaries so they can work.

Job Finding, Retention and Termination Supports »
(Illinois Department of Human Services)
Community Mental Health Center provides individuals with help in job development, coaching and placement, with a focus on the individual doing the work in the competitive job market as opposed to subsidized workplaces.

Work Incentives Planning and Assistance »
(Illinois workNet)
Learn how individuals with disabilities can plan for employment and learn about vocational rehabilitation services.

Seniors

AARP Work & Retirement »
A nonprofit organization for people 50 and older. Includes articles about job hunting, working after retirement, and budgeting and saving.

RetiredBrains »
Information on creating and updating resumes, as well as job postings.

Senior Community Service Employment Program »
(Illinois Department on Aging)
Offers placement, counseling and training to people 55 and older who are entering or re-entering the job market.

Veterans

Employment Resources for Veterans »
(National Archives)
Government agencies and other organizations often provide hiring preferences, employment assistance, training or additional benefits for veterans. Veterans may be entitled to certain preferences when applying for federal positions and may be eligible to apply for positions under special veterans appointing authorities.

Job Transitioning for Vets & Former Military »
(Quintessential Careers)
Career and job sites geared especially for military personnel making the transition to civilian jobs.

Veterans Assistance »
(Illinois workNet)
Local and statewide job postings, transitioning, education and other assistance for veterans and eligible spouses.