An increasing number of ex-offenders in Illinois are facing employment barriers that contribute to high recidivism rates and the deterioration of many low-income communities. Ex-offenders' personal employment impediments include limited work histories; poor job skills; low education levels; unstable family situations; physical and mental health issues; and histories of substance, physical, and sexual abuse. In addition to these personal barriers to employment, ex-offenders also face significant systemic employment barriers. These include prohibitions against full access to public financial and housing assistance, release without documents needed to access services and employment, mandates to fulfill child-support requirements shortly after release, and employer bias against ex-offenders. This report presents the North Lawndale Employment Network's Ex-Offender Employment Service Network (EESN) as a model for an ex-offender employment program because it incorporates most recommended best practices. Features of this program are described, followed by recommendations on the State's role in building community capacity to develop and maintain networks similar to EESN. The Task Force's advocacy agenda focuses on recommendations for specific legislative action that will enhance ex-offender employment preparation and opportunities. 11 references and a Task Force member's list