If corrections officials have not already linked individuals with community- or faith-based organizations for the purpose of assistance with finding or maintaining employment, they should do so in the critical prerelease period. This engagement should begin as early as possible, however, to allow time for the process of connection or reconnection between the intermediary and the individual. (See Policy Statement 21, Creation of Employment Opportunities, for more on engaging intermediaries to facilitate connections with potential employers of released individuals.)

Example: Conquest Offender Reintegration Ministries (DC)

Conquest Offender Reintegration Ministries (CORM) matches mentors with individuals while they are still incarcerated to work together to construct a transition plan. Once an individual is released, the CORM mentor will meet several times with that individual to help him or her to find housing, clothing, and employment.

Example: Welfare to Work Noncustodial Parent Program, Pacific Mountain Workforce (WA)

Program participants receive a host of employment support services from employment readiness programs to driver's license renewal fees. Services are provided in the jail, in work-release facilities and in the community. During incarceration, inmates are interviewed and assessed for eligibility, and eligible individuals are enrolled. Those enrolled then receive pre-employment training including a job search portfolio, interest inventories and the development of career goals.