Workforce Challenge 

Jarron's past criminal records serve as the road block for many ex-offenders—even when they are currently living responsible lives. 

Workforce Solution

The Mayor’s Office of Employment Development operates The Re-entry Center (The ReC) out of its Northwest One-Stop Career Center in Baltimore’s Mondawmin Mall. The ReC is where Jarron turned after he ran into a difficulty finding sustainable employment following his release from prison for a drug conviction.

Jarron became interested in The ReC’s Bridge 2 Careers program, which transitions ex-offenders to employment opportunities and provides them with job readiness skills and career development in high growth industries.  Through the program Jarron was able to revise his resume, participate in four to five mock job interviews and earn a placement in a welding training program offered by the Jane Addams Resource Center (JARC).

Outcomes & Benefits

Jarron continued his welding training for three months and through his gains at The ReC and JARC he was able to find work as a Welding Apprentice with the Regional Metropolitan Council making $19.00 per hour. He is absolutely thrilled about his new life as a gainfully employed, working man.