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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
JUNE XX
BENTON HARBOR, MI — Present Pillars Foundation will host an Expungement Opportunity Fair on Saturday, July 11, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm at The Pillar Center, 315 E Main Street in Benton Harbor.
The event will provide free expungement application assistance, fingerprinting, and notary services to individuals seeking to clear eligible criminal records. Attendees will also have access to felony friendly employers, workforce development resources, and entrepreneurship coaching through Emerge Innovation Hub.
“This work is about removing barriers and restoring opportunity,” said James Gunter, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Present Pillars Foundation. “Too many mothers and fathers are locked out of employment, housing, and stability because of past mistakes. When we help clear a record, we are not just helping one individual. We are strengthening families and building a healthier community.”
The Expungement Opportunity Fair is part of Present Pillars’ broader effort to address the non-medical drivers of health by improving access to employment, income stability, and long-term economic mobility for families throughout Berrien County and the surrounding region.
Safe & Just Michigan, a leading statewide advocate for criminal justice reform, is partnering on the event to provide legal expertise and support.
“Expungement is one of the most effective tools we have to expand opportunity and strengthen communities,” said Kamau Sandiford of Safe & Just Michigan. “When people are given a fair chance to move forward, we see real impacts in employment, family stability, and overall well-being. We are proud to partner with Present Pillars to bring these resources directly to Benton Harbor.”
In addition to legal services, the event will feature on-site connections to employers committed to second chance hiring, along with community partners offering reentry support and career pathways.
Call for Legal Professionals
Present Pillars Foundation is seeking volunteer attorneys and legal professionals to assist with expungement application review and guidance during the event. Legal volunteers play a critical role in ensuring participants can navigate the process accurately and efficiently.
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