Tampa Bay Academy of Hope working in conjunction with The Florida Department of Corrections is developing and implementing a program to assist returning citizens transitioning into the community by obtaining industry recognized credentials leading to sustainable employment.
Eligible Participants:
- At least 18 years of age.
- Returning to Hillsborough County and/or Polk County, Florida.
- Has a release date between 20-180 days of the enrollment date into the program.
- Legally eligible to work in the United States of America.
Returning citizens need mentors, job coaches, and tutors immediately to help with successful reentry.
To volunteer as a mentor click here.
If you are a returning citizen and need help, click here to complete an application.
Pathways to Success Program
TBAH with the help of Career Source identified demand employment sectors in the community and created vocational training strategies for men and women returning to improve workforce outcomes.
In addition to vocational skills training, participants receive prerelease services including job preparation, development of individual development plans (IDPs), identifying barriers to employment, career exploration and planning, counseling, and assistance with linking inmates to the social services required to help them transition to their communities.
Upon release, returning citizens receive continued post-release services consisting of skill-building services, including apprenticeships and occupational training in in-demand industries that lead to industry-recognized credentials.
TBAH employer connections informs specific program curricula and ensure relevance to the needs of local businesses and jobs. By teaching returning citizens foundational skills, such as job readiness, employability, and job search strategies, in addition to providing apprenticeships and occupational training leading to industry-recognized credentials, TBAH provides access to employment and reduces the likelihood of reoffending. Participants keep the same caseworker pre and post-release, which is a “best practice” in the LEAP Implementation Study.