I am very greatful for the career resource center and OES Building Bridges.
Using the Career Resource Center, a CD version of AZ Department of Education's job site, a work skills program we purchased, and FDIC's Money Smart program on a stand alone computer gives us a great deal of information for inmates. We supplement the computer with AZ Department of Economic Security, DES, flyers, a few books, and research staff conducted on the internet. Our material isn't perfect yet, but the Career Resource Center is a great help.
The Building Bridges training has brought us some great ideas and resources also. AZ DES Vocational Rehabilitation representitives and Dr. have been visiting inmates and establishing plans prior to release. AZ DES Job Services has taught staff to enter inmates into their data base a week prior to their release and is going to run a T for T on their APPLES training (training on job hunting, filling out applications etc.). AZ DES Family Assistance is working with us to get information on services which inmate families may be entitled to the family members. An Army Recruiter is visiting facilities, and we are working on a local mentoring program. These resources existed in our community but it was only through Building Bridges that we were able to join with others to support inmate transition prior to release.