NCJ Number
189824
Date Published
October 2000
Length
38 pages
Annotation
This document aims to provide community leaders, criminal justice practitioners, and citizens with an overview and practical guidance of ways to improve the cost-effectiveness of their corrections options through job training and employment programs for offenders under community supervision.
Abstract
The discussion notes employment is linked to reduced recidivism and that finding and retaining work can be one of the most difficult challenges for offenders. Most judges order probationers to engage in employment and training where it is appropriate. Most community corrections agencies oversee the function of assistance with employment, but this assistance varies widely in its availability and content. The Department of Justice has established an Office of Correctional Job Training and Placement and has developed training, technical assistance, information, and coordination efforts regarding offender job training and placement. Jurisdictions have also taken innovative approaches to provide improved offender work opportunities. Many of these approaches involve partnerships between various government agencies and private service providers. Businesses are often involved. Leaders in their area suggest that efforts in their area begin with developing an understanding of the work that needs to be done, recognizing the need to address multiple offender needs, promoting interagency collaboration, seeking leaders to carry out needed reforms, and obtaining private agency involvement. Figures, checklist, footnotes, list of contacts, and 14 references