Withstand
Reducing recidivism, one job at a time.

Overview
Withstand is a job search platform designed specifically for formerly incarcerated individuals and those looking to hire them. The platform’s mission is to reduce recidivism and humanize the process of reentering civilian life. Withstand achieves this through a combination of educational resources, donations, and, most importantly, by helping people secure meaningful employment that empowers them to build a stable future.

Problem
The U.S. has a recidivism rate of over 70%, the highest in the world. This alarming statistic underscores the challenges faced by formerly incarcerated individuals in securing stable employment and reintegrating into society. Employment is a critical factor in reducing recidivism, yet many who are released from prison struggle to find work. For instance, a study of 51,500 people released from federal prisons in 2010 revealed a significant gap in employment, compared to the highest recorded U.S. unemployment rate in decades, which was 9.6% in 2010. This stark reality highlights the urgent need for platforms like Withstand, which focus on bridging the employment gap for this underserved population.

Solution
The branding and design of Withstand were developed with a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by formerly incarcerated individuals and the employers who may hire them. The project began with an analysis of key competitors, including Honest Jobs and Felony Record Hub, to identify gaps and opportunities in the market. User interviews were then conducted to gain insights into the needs and concerns of both formerly incarcerated workers and potential employers. These insights were codified into user personas, which guided the design process and ensured that the platform met the needs of both groups effectively.

The final Withstand logo is a powerful representation of the brand’s mission. The capital letters were modified to be wider, injecting quirks and personality into the design while maintaining a serious and empowering tone. This logo reflects the brand’s values of authenticity, reliability, and empowerment, making it a strong visual anchor for all branding efforts.

The website features inspirational messaging paired with a highly simple and usable interface, optimized for mobile to ensure accessibility for all users. The website is designed to be a supportive and encouraging space, where formerly incarcerated individuals can find the resources and job opportunities they need to rebuild their lives.

One of Withstand’s most important marketing channels is out-of-home advertising. These ads use inspirational messaging to reach both workers and employers, reinforcing the brand’s mission to empower and uplift its users. Withstand’s marketing efforts are designed to resonate deeply with its target audience, inspiring both hope and action.