Juvenile Offenders Get a Break

“You just need a little more experience…”  These words may seem benevolent enough, but for plenty of people they are plain cruel.  In order to get more experience, you need… experience.

Recruiters are familiar with this dilemma that people face when trying to break into a new profession.

The U.S. Department of Labor is trying to take action to change this familiar situation.

The U.S. Department of Labor today announced the availability of approximately $20 million in grants through its Civic Justice Corps program.  Projects funded through these grants will help juvenile offenders gain valuable jobs skills, and participants will demonstrate accountability for their actions through community service.

“Some young people stray from the paths of career, family and community, but that need not dictate the rest of their lives,” said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis.  “Connecting young offenders with opportunities to acquire solid job skills is a crucial step toward ensuring their long term economic self-sufficiency and allows them to take a positive role in our society.”

Awarded through a competitive process, the grants will prepare participants for employment and reduce recidivism. These goals will be accomplished through on-the-job training, job placement, subsidized jobs and service projects that allow young offenders to take a positive role in their communities. Participants will improve their skills, and enhance their future educational and career opportunities, through the work experiences, vocational training and academic interventions made possible by these grants.