People for People Second Chance Act Community-Based Reentry Program

People For People (PFP) proposes in Yakima County to implement a Second Chance Community-Based Reentry (SCCBR) program in partnership with the Yakima County Department of Corrections (YCDOC) & Probation Services (YCDOP). The purpose of the program is to enhance the success of and prioritize services to Black, Indigenous, or People of Color (BIPOC) communities, including Limited English speakers, during pre- and post-release through workforce services as individuals prepare for reentry into the community. The program will utilize an evidence-based, three-pillar approach that is inclusive and personalized with a Navigator to assess the individuals' needs. Implementation of the three pillars addresses, basic need stabilization, opportunity for employment and education, and support and accountability through mentorship and network development.

PFP currently provides several workforce programs that use comprehensive and individualized case management to successfully transition individuals with significant barriers to employment leading to a better life and sustained self-sufficiency. The current model is highly successful in transitioning over 80% of the participants into employment at living wages. Through this project, PFP will customize and provide the delivery of services that meet the specific needs and challenges of the BIPOC community so that they will attain self-sufficiency and reduce recidivism.

Over the course of the grant, PFP will serve 325 individuals. The program will provide pre-release cognitive behavioral and job readiness workshops at the Yakima County Jail to 210 individuals. The Navigator will work with YCDOC and YCDOP and serve as a point of contact to assess individuals' needs for transitional services. Once the assessment is complete the Navigator will advocate for the individual either directly or indirectly, with established community partners, to meet the basic needs of that individual. The SCCBR program will utilize experienced instructors and curricula focused on the needs and barriers of justice-involved individuals transitioning from correctional environments.

By collaborating with a network of partners and wrap-around services, PFP anticipates outcomes that of the 115 individuals enrolled in comprehensive case management services,100% of those will be connected to support services and attend reentry workshops, and 60% will remain in training and/or obtain employment.