New CSSP Resource: Promoting Workforce Strategies for Reintegrating Ex-Offenders

The Center for the Study of Social Policy (CSSP) has created a new section on PolicyforResults that focuses on workforce strategies that can promote the successful reintegration of ex-offenders. This new section - which includes tools, resources, strategies and policy examples - is designed to help policymakers reduce recidivism and ensure that ex-offenders have access to jobs and other crucial supports. In addition to the new section, CSSP has released a companion report, which provides further discussion about the need to support ex-offenders, as well as information about the data-driven strategies that can promote workforce participation and the successful reintegration of ex-offenders into their communities. Throughout the report, several state programs and data-driven policies are highlighted.

According to the report, more than 4 out of 10 adult offenders in the U.S. return to prison within three years of release. High rates of recidivism affect the lives of offenders, as well as the lives of their children and families who often face several hardships, such as a loss of income. Providing offenders with supports in services while incarcerated, as well as supports and services post-release, can positively impact the likelihood that an ex-offender will be engaged in the workforce and have the ability to support his/her children, families and the entire community.

PolicyforResults – a project of the Center for the Study of Social Policy – is an online resource that provides policymakers with research-based policy strategies that achieve measureable results for children and families. To learn more about workforce strategies that can support the reintegration of ex-offenders, as well as other critical policy strategies that promote the well-being of children, families and communities, please visit PolicyforResults.

Other Resources:
Please review our recent post to learn more about a series of grants focused on reentry and community safety that were recently announced by the Department of Justice.