Expungement Summit to Offer Second Chances for Individuals Seeking Fresh Start (Joliet, IL) – Community organizations and elected officials will join forces next month to help Illinois residents clear their criminal records and access new opportunities through the Expungement & Second Chances Summit.
The event will take place Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Prairie State College Conference Center in Chicago Heights. Organizers say the goal is to provide practical legal assistance and restore hope for individuals whose past records have created barriers to employment, education and housing.
The summit is hosted by the Joliet Area South Suburban Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., in partnership with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Theta Rho Omega Chapter, Governors State University Legal Clinic and Prairie State College.
“For too long, many Illinois residents have carried the burden of past records that prevent them from moving forward,” a spokesperson for the Joliet alumnae chapter said. “This event is about restoring dignity, rebuilding lives and ensuring that everyone has the chance to thrive.”
Event Offers Legal Help and Community Support
The summit will feature a range of free services, including:
- On-site legal consultations with volunteer attorneys and law students
- Workshops on expungement and record-sealing
- Community resource tables offering employment, education and wellness support
- Voter registration
- A pretrial rights seminar
Local leaders scheduled to attend include Rev. Troy Underwood, State Sen. Willie Preston, State Rep. Justin Slaughter, State Rep. Marcus Evans, Chicago Heights Mayor Jason House, and representatives from Prairie State College. All have been vocal supporters of criminal justice reform and community empowerment.
“Justice must include restoration,” the spokesperson said. “Second chances aren’t just about forgiveness — they’re about opportunity, accountability and building stronger communities together.”
Registration Encouraged
The event is free and open to the public. Attendees seeking legal assistance are encouraged to pre-register and bring relevant court documents to help speed the process. Registration is available online through Eventbrite.
Event Details:
- What: Expungement & Second Chances Summit
- When: Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
- Where: Prairie State College Conference Center, 202 S. Halsted St., Chicago Heights
- Registration: Available online
Expungement Summit to Offer Second Chances for Individuals Seeking Fresh Start
