Careers After Corrections - Second Chance Month
- 16 hours ago
- 3 min read
April is #SecondChanceMonth —a time to recognize the resilience of individuals reentering society after incarceration and to highlight the programs that support them on their path to stability, employment, and growth. At WDBSCW, we’re proud to partner with local and state organizations that open doors for justice-involved individuals as they rebuild their lives and careers. For over a decade, we’ve been at the forefront of supporting reentry initiatives, leveraging federal and state grants to provide critical employment and supportive services across South Central Wisconsin.
One of the key initiatives we’ve helped launch is Wisconsin’s first-ever correctional institution job center. This hands-on resource, which began as a pilot, is now available in 16 centers statewide. Inside these centers, justice-involved individuals gain access to employment assistance and digital tools that prepare them for the workforce before they are released. From building resumes and practicing interviews to connecting with potential employers, these centers offer participants a valuable head start as they transition back into society.
A cornerstone program, run through our Employment and Training Association (EATA) team is Windows to Work, a partnership with the Wisconsin Department of Corrections. This post-release initiative equips individuals with the skills and tools they need to successfully reenter the workforce. Participants receive employability training, coaching, resume assistance, and job search support—all aimed at reducing recidivism and promoting long-term self-sufficiency.
In addition to this effort, is Pathways Home 4 (PH4), funded by the U.S. Department of Labor and led locally by our Career Coach, Jeff Kennedy. Jeff works with individuals while they are still incarcerated to help them prepare for their release, continuing to assist them after they return to the community. Through job leads, employment coaching, transportation assistance, and ongoing mentorship, PH4 serves to minimize barriers hindering a stable and successful transition back into society. In fact, two-thirds of participants who met with Jeff within 72 hours of release are now employed, housed, or actively engaged in interviews.
We’ve also partnered with Madison College and the Department of Corrections to offer incarcerated individuals educational opportunities like Construction Essentials and Electromechanical programs. The programs allow individuals who are eligible for work release to further their education and earn diplomas, certifications and a plethora of hands-on skills so they can transition into employment with applicable skills.
Oregon Correctional Center Work Release Coordinator Sergeant Shimek has connected many graduates over the years to well-paying jobs that directly utilize the knowledge the students gained.
He muses, "I can't speak higher of these programs. It's a great opportunity and a great benefit. Many of our guys are now working for Trachte and Stoughton Trailers making $20-$35/hr. Because they've been working in public, they know how to interact with others and still maintain their work ethic, ensuring their success once released."
"Because they've been working in public, they know how to interact with others and still maintain their work ethic, ensuring their success once released."
As we recognize Second Chance Month, we remain committed to expanding access to education, employment, and stability for individuals reentering our communities. These efforts strengthen the workforce, address critical labor shortages, and support long-term economic growth.