NCJ Number
175029
Journal
Journal of Offender Rehabilitation Volume: 28 Issue: 1/2 Dated: 1998 Pages: 89-106
Date Published
1998
Length
18 pages
Annotation
Based on on-site interviews conducted with staff, clients (including current inmates and ex-offenders), and employers at each program, this study assesses the effectiveness of employment programs for ex-offenders at the Safer Foundation in Chicago, the Center for Employment Opportunities in New York City, and Project RIO in Texas.
Abstract
These programs have developed unusually comprehensive approaches to preparing ex-offenders for the workplace. Evaluations of these programs' effectiveness in improving clients' educational scores, helping them find permanent jobs, and reducing recidivism are limited in scope. After reviewing each of the three programs' effectiveness, this paper presents the available evidence regarding their effectiveness in placing ex-offenders in unsubsidized jobs in order to reduce recidivism. The three programs have many features in common that can be easily replicated, particularly the basic services of life-skills training, job-preparation skills, job placement, social support, and follow-up assistance; however, unique circumstances helped each of these programs become established and succeed. The evidence suggests that programs similar to the three assessed can place a large number of ex-offenders in jobs; however, to date there is incomplete evidence that these types of programs are effective in helping large numbers of ex-offenders to remain employed and avoid recidivism; nevertheless, the programs hold sufficient promise of achieving these goals to warrant replication, accompanied by evaluation, as one component of a comprehensive effort to reduce recidivism. 4 figures and 11 references