Center for People - Supporting Meaningful Employment Opportunities for Justice-Impacted Individuals through Talent Marketplace Program

The Center for People seeks Second Chance Act grant funding to improve employment outcomes for currently and formerly incarcerated individuals in Lincoln, Nebraska. The program aims to enhance reentry outcomes, reduce recidivism, and support transitional planning for justice-impacted individuals primarily through career development activities. By focusing on skill building and connecting participants with employers, the program aims to facilitate successful community reintegration.

The program will provide training and skill development in high-demand career pathways such as business, healthcare, skilled trades, and technology. After completing a credentialing program, designated program staff will facilitate connections to local businesses offering meaningful employment opportunities that align with 'Good Jobs Principles' and the ABCs of Jobs. Participants receive personalized guidance throughout the job search process. Holistic, trauma-informed case management and aftercare services will support participants through career counseling, service connection, and barrier reduction services to improve their employability and support their successful reentry. Program staff will encourage participants to continually use our services to upskill, reskill, and seek “better” jobs to build upon the skills learned in their first job after incarceration.

 Intended beneficiaries of this project include currently incarcerated community-custody offenders residing in the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services’ Community Corrections Center-Lincoln, individuals currently residing in the Lancaster County Department of Corrections Jail, individuals serving parole or on post-release supervision, and formerly justice-impacted living in the identified service area. The service area of this project will include Lancaster County and the city of Lincoln metropolitan area, located in the southeastern portion of the state of Nebraska. This initiative focuses on facilitating their transition into the workforce and community.

 Key outcomes include participants completing a career preparedness course, developing professional resumes, workplace skills, and interview confidence. They will also earn certifications in business, healthcare, skilled trades, or technology, enhancing their employability. The program aims to increase participants' access to meaningful employment opportunities and ensure ongoing support through comprehensive case management as they reintegrate into their communities.