Unago

Unago is Belgium's pioneering recruitment agency dedicated to assisting individuals with a criminal record in re-entering the workforce. By bridging the gap between motivated job seekers and employers, Unago fosters inclusivity and social impact, facilitating the reintegration of former detainees into society while helping companies find qualified and committed staff. The name "Unago" embodies our philosophy and commitment to the community. It signifies our belief in collective action—by uniting our efforts, we can create sustainable opportunities and transform lives. This collaborative approach also reflects our desire to build bridges across diverse sectors, including social, public, and private domains, to construct a more inclusive and equitable future for all. The reintegration of former detainees presents a significant challenge for society. Statistics reveal that individuals released from detention have a 70% chance of reoffending, except when they secure employment, which reduces the recidivism rate to 15%. Upon release, these individuals often encounter numerous obstacles: societal stigma, lack of support, housing instability, debt, and, in some cases, fractured family and social ties. These challenges complicate their reintegration process. Conversely, gaining employment fosters self-confidence, social connections, and autonomy—essential elements for successful reintegration. Therefore, we view employment as a crucial component in combating recidivism. Imagine if leaving prison equated to entering the job market. Our mission is twofold: to reintegrate individuals with a criminal record into society and to assist companies in finding motivated personnel. Through our human-centered approach, we aim to provide tailored, transparent support to both our candidates and clients, creating bridges between job seekers eager to work and employers seeking quality hires, thereby promoting sustainable and meaningful employment. We envision a more inclusive society where every individual, regardless of their past, has the opportunity to change their life trajectory and contribute positively to the community. Our core values include: Inclusion : We believe every individual deserves an equitable chance to access the job market, promoting enriching diversity. Accompaniment : We offer personalized support to our candidates and partner companies, taking our advisory role to heart and engaging deeply in the recruitment process. Respect for Differences : We honor and value the unique backgrounds and experiences of each individual. Work : We emphasize the importance of meaningful employment as a foundation for personal and societal growth. Transparency : We maintain open and honest communication with all stakeholders to build trust and ensure clarity. Unlike traditional temporary employment agencies that offer short-term positions, Unago focuses on creating lasting relationships between employers and candidates. We believe in stability and mutual commitment, leading to successful placements and fulfilled talent. Our comprehensive support program includes: Pre-employment Coaching : Personalized coaching with at least three one-hour individual sessions. During these meetings, we help candidates analyze their journey, identify strengths and weaknesses, assess motivation, define professional needs, and prepare for interviews. Employment Placement : We engage with employers to thoroughly understand their needs and the characteristics sought for available positions, ensuring optimal matches between candidate profiles and company requirements. Post-employment Follow-up : Our support extends beyond hiring. In collaboration with the company, we develop a customized integration plan for both the employee and employer, providing continuous guidance over a 12-month period to ensure a successful and sustainable working relationship. Additionally, we offer awareness workshops in partnership with criminal lawyers, designed for companies and their staff, to sensitize them to issues related to detention and reintegration. For companies, partnering with Unago offers enriched and streamlined recruitment. We distinguish ourselves by focusing on successful and long-term reintegration. Unlike other agencies that prioritize quantity, we emphasize the quality and sustainability of placements. Our rigorous pre-employment process includes three follow-up interviews, ensuring that we propose candidates perfectly suited to your needs. Furthermore, our support continues post-hiring, providing ongoing assistance for successful integration. For candidates, Unago offers: Guidance Towards Employment : We assist candidates in their job search, helping them develop skills and prepare for interviews to maximize their chances of success. Re-entering the job market also helps rebuild confidence and social connections. Welcoming Employers : We collaborate with employers who are open-minded and willing to give a second chance, considering each talent equally. Stable Contracts for a Secure Future : Unago provides stable and lasting employment opportunities, allowing candidates to build a solid and secure professional future. In two years, we have established ambitious partnerships and a dynamic ecosystem, having met 171 candidates, earned the trust of 28 companies, conducted 615 hours of pre-employment coaching, and collaborated with 82 public partners. Unago is a non-profit organization. Your support can transform the lives of individuals seeking to reintegrate into society after serving their sentences. Consider making a donation today to support our coaching and professional placement programs. Together, let's invest in reintegration and contribute to a more inclusive world.