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In the United States, the vast majority of released prisoners return to the poorest neighborhoods, where they face enormous obstacles to successfully reestablishing themselves. Half lack a high school diploma and steady work experience. Even those who finished high school may not have the basic reading and math skills to pass employment tests or enter occupational training. Employers are frequently reluctant to hire convicted felons, and in many industries these individuals are barred from obtaining work licenses. In 2008, federal policymakers made the single largest investment to date toward reducing recidivism by passing the Second Chance Act. The legislation creates a dedicated funding stream for 'prisoner reentry' programs that help returnees prepare for employment, connect to affordable housing and access other supports that may ease the transition between incarceration and life on the outside.

This guide provides a summary of guidelines and suggestions for practitioners on employment programs for a range of disadvantaged populations, based on the current body of research. It explores strategies in three major areas: (1) services aimed at helping people find immediate employment; (2) services that provide paid job experiences to participants; and (3) services that help people gain occupational skills. For each area of programming, the guide provides: an overview of the approach, including its history and a brief definition; a high-level summary of the most recent and rigorous research available about the approach; an example of the approach in action; key 'takeaways' for Second Chance Act grantees and other programs serving formerly incarcerated individuals - specifically, why you might pursue each approach and what to keep in mind if you do; and where to go to learn more.

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