CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — April is Second Chance Month in Ohio, a time to spotlight the state’s efforts to support individuals reentering society after incarceration with free employment services and job training opportunities.
Ohio offers a range of programs to help restored citizens find work and rebuild their lives. At 13 state correctional facilities, certified OhioMeansJobs Centers provide skill-building workshops, job listings, and connections to local services, ensuring individuals are prepared to enter the workforce upon release. Many leave prison with certifications, apprenticeships, or even college degrees, thanks to training programs and access to the Second Chance Pell Grant for financial aid.
“OhioMeansJobs.com is a lifeline for anyone looking to start over,” said a state official. The website includes a dedicated section for restored citizens, while Ohio Reentry Connections, a secure platform, allows those within 90 days of release to activate resumes for employers to see. Pre-release assessments, available six months before release, connect individuals with employment professionals for tailored support.
Specialized training programs target high-demand industries like broadband and 5G installation, helping to expand high-speed internet across Ohio. At Lorain and Grafton Correctional Institutions, Lorain Community College offers credential training in robotics and electronics engineering, equipping participants with skills for well-paying careers.
Employment is seen as a cornerstone of successful reentry. Around 18,000 people exit Ohio’s prisons each year, and studies show that steady jobs reduce recidivism while offering dignity and purpose. “I’ve seen firsthand how a job can change everything,” said an employer who hired a formerly incarcerated worker. “He was one of the hardest workers I’ve ever met.”
Employers also benefit from second-chance hiring. Many report that restored citizens are motivated, loyal, and less likely to quit. Incentives like the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) and free fidelity bonds further encourage businesses to take a chance on these workers.
For youth, second-chance efforts include high school education, skill certifications, and industry credentials at Ohio Department of Youth Services facilities. “We’re giving them the tools to succeed,” a program coordinator said, emphasizing the focus on in-demand jobs.
The DRC Reentry Resource Portal complements these efforts, offering resources on housing, education, and jobs to ease the transition back into communities. Local OhioMeansJobs Centers provide career planning, assessments, and financial guidance to help restored citizens chart a new path.
For more details, visit Job Services for Restored Citizens at ohio.gov.