JobsFirst
 | |
 |
JobsFirst serves offenders residing in, or being released from, correctional institutions at Lino Lakes, Oak Park Heights, Rush City, Shakopee, Stillwater, Red Wing, Moose Lake, Faribault, Togo, and St. Cloud. The purpose of the program is to strengthen offenders’ ability to realistically plan for the transition from prison to the community and to increase their chances of becoming self-sufficient upon release.
The program consists of two parts:
- A pre-release classroom component conducted in each institution
- A post-release, community-based Job Club, which provides a structured environment in which the skills necessary to prepare for, and keep, a job are taught
Classroom component: Classes and training are offered on job seeking and retention skills, including resume writing, conviction responses, and interviewing. Minnesota prisoners receive JobsFirst employment classes before their release.
Job Club: The Job Club helps recently released offenders find employment. Services include assistance to:
- secure identification
- complete job applications
- assemble resumes
- find job leads
- improve interviewing skills
- resolve barriers to employment
Only individuals who have been released from prison, not jail or workhouse, and are currently supervised by the Minnesota Department of Corrections are eligible for Job Club. If you have a criminal conviction and are looking for work but are not eligible for our services, one of these organizations may be able to assist you:
- The Council on Crime and Justice has a support group for ex-offenders
- Amicus assists those with felony convictions on their record to find work and other resources
- Twin Cities Rise! Awali Place assists men with personal development and job search help
- The Minnesota Workforce Centers have resources available for all job seekers throughout Minnesota
Publications
JobsFirst Employment Services Brochure
JobsFirst Community Employment Connection
Issues of Next Step, the JobsFirst newsletter:
