Community safety is everyone’s concern. Research shows that offenders working in the community are less likely to recidivate. However, individuals with a criminal record face significant barriers to finding sustainable employment.

On July 25, 2007, the National Institute of Corrections (NIC) will assemble a diverse panel of experts working in community corrections, faith-based, victim services, and workforce provider environments during its 3-hour live broadcast to address this issue as it relates to community safety. The panelists will introduce participants to NIC’s systemic model for building bridges to employment for offenders.

This broadcast is available without charge to any agency or facility nationwide with access to the Internet or a satellite dish or downlink (both analog C-Band and digital KU-Band transponders). If your agency does not have its own satellite dish, check to see if a local college, federal prison, or hotel in your area has a downlinked meeting room. If you cannot find a site locally or need information on viewing the broadcast using the Internet then contact Ed Wolahan for assistance. Participating sites that register by July 23, 2007, will be able to download satellite coordinates and Internet access information as well as the Site Coordinator and Participant Guides. Local site coordinators will download and make copies of the Participant Guide for each participant. It is suggested that participants download the recommended reading material for their own information. Coordinators are strongly encouraged to convene their groups at least one hour before broadcast time and to continue discussions after the broadcast.

CLOSED CAPTION IS AVAILABLE FOR THE HEARING IMPAIRED.

Objectives

This broadcast will assist participants with the following:

• Identifying and addressing barriers to employment faced by released offenders.
• Working with employers on offender related job development.
• Building bridges systemically to increase offender employment opportunities and enhance community safety.
• Developing a “4th hour” action plan to integrate and expand the information presented.

Audience

Professionals working with defendants, incarcerated or released offenders in the area of workforce development. This includes: probation, parole, pre-trial, prisons, jails, private facilities, halfway houses,
juvenile justice, detention centers, one-stops, faith-based and community organizations. Management and
program administrators are strongly encouraged to attend.