Carroll Community College Partners with County Justice System to Launch Innovative “Justice System to Careers Initiative”
Westminster, MD – Carroll Community College signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with eight organizations in the county justice system on August 15th launching the “Justice System to Careers Initiative” program. This program is designed to support juveniles and individuals re-entering society from incarceration by providing them with valuable educational and career opportunities.
The landmark MOU, includes Carroll Community College Workforce, Business and Community Education, the Carroll County State’s Attorney’s Office, Carroll County Sheriff’s Office-Offender Diversion Unit, Carroll County Health Department, Carroll County Circuit Court, Carroll County Workforce Development, Justice Jobs of Maryland, Inc. and Carroll County Public Defender’s Office. This partnership signifies a unified commitment to enhancing rehabilitative and reintegration efforts and aims to address critical support gaps by offering targeted education, workforce development, and specialized training programs.
Key Aspects of the “Justice System to Careers Initiative” Include:
- Educational Programs: Academic and vocational training designed to meet the specific needs of juveniles and formerly incarcerated or diverted individuals, helping them acquire skills relevant to today’s job market.
- Career Pathways: Support in navigating career opportunities with a focus on high-demand fields, including hands-on training, apprenticeships, and job placement services.
- Holistic Support Services: Comprehensive support that includes weekly counseling, participation stipends, and access to additional resources to ensure successful program completion and transition into the workforce.
- Collaborative Approach: A coordinated effort among the eight MOU signatories and additional community partner organizations to create a robust support network that facilitates successful reintegration.
“We are excited to embark on this meaningful initiative that aligns with our mission of empowering learners, changing lives, and building community,” said Dr. Rose Mince, President of the College. “The Justice System to Careers Initiative agreement represents more than a document. It signifies a unified vision and a shared dedication to making a meaningful impact on individuals navigating the criminal justice system,” she said.
Whether through short-term credentialing, obtaining their GED, securing a high-paying job, or all of the above, the College looks forward to co-promoting the career pathways and wrap-around services to help at-risk youth and justice-involved citizens succeed.
“We work closely with the community college and have other initiatives with them,” said Sheriff Jim DeWees. “This initiative underscores our commitment to providing justice and supporting rehabilitation and reintegration efforts. By working with the College and other key stakeholders, we reinforce our dedication to creating opportunities that enable individuals to turn their lives around and contribute positively to society,” he said.
“This partnership is invaluable and will provide individuals with the resources that will reduce recidivism in Carroll County,” said Haven Shoemaker, Carroll County State’s Attorney.
The initiative promises to be a cornerstone in enhancing the support structure for individuals navigating the transition from the justice system to productive, fulfilling careers.
It’s exciting to partner with these esteemed organizations on an initiative fueled by a common passion – empowering individuals to change their lives in a positive way,” said Dr. Angelica Carter, Director of Community Engagement & Employee Development at the College.
PHOTO CAPTION: A united commitment to supporting successful re-entry and second chances as these dedicated justice system professionals sign an MOU to strengthen community support and collaboration.
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Carroll Community College’s mission is Empowering learners. Changing lives. Building community. Carroll Community College (Carroll) provides accessible, high-quality educational opportunities to advance careers, enrich lives, and strengthen the community we serve. Carroll offers academic and career preparation leading to transfer to four-year colleges and universities, and for direct entry into professional opportunities. Carroll Community College is located at 1601 Washington Road, Westminster, Md., 21157. Visit us on our website at www.carrollcc.edu.