Pittsburgh Reentry Career Services Program

The Partner4Work (P4W) Pittsburgh Reentry Career Services program (PRCS) brings together the Allegheny County Jail (ACJ), the PA CareerLink American Job Center and community-based partners to improve employment services and connections for returning citizens in Allegheny County, thereby reducing recidivism and increasing community safety. PRCS is built around the following core components: highly qualified program staff delivering pre- and post-release supportive and career services; participants’ choice of training and work-related activities that align with in-demand jobs and provide career-track employment at sustainable wages; and strong relationships with key partner agencies. PRCS serves participants who are low-income individuals ages 18+ and residing in the ACJ at the time of enrollment in the program. PCRS provides high-quality pre- and post-release career services to people incarcerated in the ACJ, including mentoring, scholarships to attend occupational training, transitional employment opportunities, subsidized wages for on-the-job training, job placement assistance, and supportive services with dedicated partners providing legal aid, housing, and transportation assistance. Presently, there is a high demand for skilled workers in Allegheny County due to expected growth in several industries, including manufacturing, construction, and transportation and logistics. Within each in-demand industry, P4W has actively engaged with employers and community-based organizations to design and implement occupational training programs and career pathway models to assist job seekers facing systemic barriers to employment, including those with records. Outcome measures will include program participation, completion and progress made in developing skills, knowledge and behavior to successfully reintegrate and remain in the community.