A Double Win: Changing Lives Through Second Chances

About the Program

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

Year: 2020

Henrico County’s Sheriff’s Department founded ORBIT (Opiate Recovery Based on Intensive Tracking) to help eliminate drug abuse – a key factor in criminal recidivism. Another crucial dynamic in keeping people out of jail is providing them with the skills, confidence, and know-how to seek and acquire reliable and fulfilling work. Doing so may reduce the chances of recidivism and create the structure, stability, and income to help prior ORBIT participants lead productive lives. The Employment and Compensation Services (ECS) Division of Human Resources (HR) collaborated with the Sheriff’s Office to provide ten ORBIT participants with the tools required to seek and hold steady jobs, such as: creating resumes; matching skills with job vacancies; mock interviews; submitting job applications, and providing individualized feedback to each participant. The results are resounding and powerful. Six out of ten have already been hired and their supervisors state that they outshined other applicants. In addition, several have received praise for excelling at their jobs, with commendation for their hard work and dedication. The next group of participants has already been selected to participate in the Second Chances Program. Second Chances’ astounding success makes clear the profound impact that local government can have on human lives.