A new effort to see higher employment of inmates leaving the Fayette County Jail will begin next month. It is found in the new Second Chance Academy.
The six-week academy, focusing on job training and job placement, will occur before inmates leave jail. The aim is to serve about a hundred inmates each year for two years in small groups. Jubilee Jobs is partnering with the City. CEO Mason King is optimistic the vast majority will land jobs.
“And we expect that 75% of those are going to complete the program and then be able to access the services to obtain jobs post-release,” said King
King said the power of dignified work changes the outlook and momentum in someone’s life.
Lexington Director of Business Engagement Amy Glasscock said the key will be how Jubilee Jobs builds relationships with inmates while still in jail.
Scott Colvin is the director of Community Corrections.
“Oh I think it will generate quite a bit of optimism and positive energy in the units while they’re still in custody because they have hope, they have a plan. They’re getting services and support that they wouldn’t have had otherwise,” said Colvin.
The Second Chance Academy will work hand in hand with the Barrier Free Re-Entry Program. That effort, also funded with federal dollars, is designed to help those in recovery who are leaving jail.
** WEKU is working hard to be a leading source for public service, fact-based journalism. Monthly sustaining donors are the top source of funding for this growing nonprofit news organization. Please join others in your community who support WEKU by making your donation.
