The state of Kentucky has created secondchance.ky.gov, a website that connects residents who are leaving prison or overcoming addiction to resources that can help them find a job and/or an education. It also includes resources for companies that want to become second chance employers.
At its launch during Second Chance Month in April, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear said, ““My faith teaches me that there are second chances in this life – and that we are all our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers. To help every Kentuckian reach their full potential, we must live out our faith and values and help those struggling.”
“With the historic economic progress we’re seeing, we have a responsibility to make sure prosperity reaches every Kentuckian. No matter the struggle, we have resources to help folks get back on their feet and find a good job.”
Education is key
Education is a key component of the success of those in reentry.
“We are committed to helping Kentuckians looking for a fresh start to move beyond their past and into a better future with ways to learn, train and earn. Also, at the same time, assisting employers in the commonwealth with their workforce needs through incentives and programs that reach the previously untapped talent pool of justice-involved and recovering populations,” said Dr. John Gregory, who oversees the state’s Office of Adult Education
“Our goal is to see all Kentuckians win and be well prepared by obtaining a GED, college degree, credentials or obtain skills through work and learn programs like apprenticeship so they can walk through doors of opportunities that lead to good-paying jobs.”
Website includes useful info on job search and education
The secondchance.ky.gov website is divided into four sections:
Finding a Job – This includes links to and info on:
- Resume help.
- The state job search portal.
- Info about jobs at Kentucky state parks.
- Events that include everything from job fairs to expungement workshops.
Getting an Education – In this section of the secondchance.ky.gov website, those in reentry can find:
- A directory of GED prep class locations.
- A link to the Kentucky Registered Apprenticeship Program.
- Educational opportunities within the state’s prisons.
Benefits for Business – This connects businesses to fair chance employer programs and informs them on how the practice can benefit their hiring. It also provides information on the Kentucky Fair Chance Bond and Work Opportunity Tax Credit.
Recovery Resources – Designed for those struggling with addiction, it highlights a variety of resources that include:
- The number for the KY HELP Statewide Call Center that directs people to substance abuse treatment services.
- Drug and mental health treatment alternatives to incarceration.
- Info on the state’s residential substance abuse treatment programs within many of its jails and prisons.
We hope that other states will be inspired by Kentucky to set up similar websites (if they haven’t already), so that more people in reentry will know about and have access to the many resources that currently exist.
