"Second Chance" Job Training Program

The Congressionally Recommended Awards Program, authorized by the Department of Justice Appropriations Act, 2010 (Pub. L. 111-117), helps improve the functioning of the criminal justice system, prevent or combat juvenile delinquency, and/or assist victims of crime (other than compensation). Funds should be used for the projects recommended by Congress, in the amounts specified in the joint explanatory statement incorporated by reference into Pub. L. 111-117, and generally consistent with one or more of the following statutory purposes: improving the functioning of the criminal justice system, preventing or combating juvenile delinquency, or assisting victims of crime (other than compensation). Each of these purposes is framed using language drawn, respectively, from the former Byrne discretionary statute, the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act, the Victims of Crime Act, and the Violence Against Women Act. This project is authorized and funded through a line item in the FY 2010 Congressional Budget and by the joint explanatory statement that is incorporated by reference into the FY2010 Department of Justice Appropriations Act.

The Digital Development Corporation and Oversight Committee (DDCOC) will suport its Second Chance Job Training Program. Since 2005, the organization has been working to address some of the economic self-sufficiency issues facing ex-offenders in Chicago's west-side community. The mission of DDCOC is to create an effective training platform in accordance with industry standards for preparedness and job readiness in the many fields in which technology and technology support services are required and in demand, and to create a dedicated, competent, and able workforce focused on filling that demand. The Second Chances Job Training Program for ex-offenders not only trains them but also provides individuals with on-the-job training and employment placement services in entry level technology positions. Through a series of job training, on-the-job training, pre-employment skills training, employment placement services, and other support services, the program's goal is to promote the creation of job training and employment placement opportunities that lead to economic self-sufficiency. The organization anticipates that the program will have a major positive impact on the lives of many ex-offenders by providing them with marketable job skills they can use toward gaining economic self-sufficiency and that it will reduce community crime and recidivism.

NCA/NCF