Kimberly Moss trains with the Chicago Women in Trades program. (WTTW News)

Many people who’ve been impacted by the criminal legal system say they frequently face problems finding employment. Some local organizations are helping people build new skills, while others are aiming to address laws and licensing requirements.

After serving time in federal prison, Marlon Chamberlain now works with Heartland Alliance to reduce the legal barriers faced by people with criminal records.

In Illinois, an estimated 3.3 million people have criminal records, which can include everything from an arrest to years spent in prison. But even once their criminal case has run its course, the punishment continues. Those who know the system best are working to make change for those looking to rebuild their lives.

(WTTW News)

With President Biden announcing his student loan forgiveness plan last week as a way to alleviate some of the financial burdens of millions of people, it is worth understanding how college tuition reached this all-time high, and what can be done to address the rising costs of obtaining a college degree.