Clean Start Workforce Re-entry Program

About the Program

Category: Personnel Management, Employment and Training (Best in Category)

Year: 2016

Maricopa County’s Smart Justice initiative provided the foundation for an innovative collaboration between Human Services, the Sheriff’s Office, and Adult Probation to provide justice-involved individuals with occupational skills training, in a County work setting that results in employment. “Clean Start” is a unique workforce re-entry program in which females on probation are selected for paid work experience, supplemented with cognitive behavioral change training, specialized career guidance, and job placement services. Program participants are medium to moderately high-risk offenders who are at risk for recidivism, have limited skills, lack work experience, and face other barriers to economic success. The program was fully implemented in March 2016. Up to thirty participants are selected by Adult Probation, assessed and placed by Human Services Workforce Development, and receive a paid stipend, while acquiring a range of transferable work skills over a thirteen week period in the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office laundry facility. Individuals receive weekly employment readiness evaluations, intensive case management tailored to their needs of each individual, and support services. Successful participants transition to regular employment in the community during or after completion of the program. The program’s evaluation provides a basis for replication in other areas of the County.