NCJ Number
83280
Date Published
1981
Length
546 pages
Annotation
This manual presents a job-readiness pilot program to serve as a preemployment training model for female ex-offenders. The program emphasizes nontraditional technical occupations.
Abstract
The pilot programs' purpose is to develop an effective preemployment training model that could be replicated by other employment training organizations. The model's goals are to provide broad exposure to employment options and assistance in selecting training and jobs for 80 women offenders eligible under the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act (CETA) at 2 training sites. Specifically, the program helps women ex-offenders increase self-esteem and confidence; learn about the rewards of employment; develop problem-solving, personal assertiveness, and communications skills; and deal effectively with personal problems that may impact job success. Enrollees are encouraged to pursue jobs that pay adequately, and are attainable and personally rewarding. The result should be at least a 50-percent placement of participants in unsubsidized employment. Additional objectives are to obtain greater CETA allocations for this target group, develop better interagency links with CETA and the local criminal justice system, and continue training and support of clients for 2 months after placement. The program is education-oriented, teaching skills and providing resources to approximately 20 participants in each of 4 program cycles. A 4-week, worklike experience covers self-assessment, basic math, communications, work adjustment, career/job information, career goal setting, and job search. These instructional components are interrelated with activities, exercises, and resources that reinforce critical preemployment skills. A film bibliography, a program evaluation plan, and evaluation instruments are supplied in this loose-leaf manual.