Policy Brief : Ex-Offender Rehabilitation Programs Goal Statement: The purpose of this policy is to create sustainable economic rehabilitation programs for ex-offenders

Goal Statement  The purpose of this policy is to create sustainable economical rehabilitation programs for ex- offenders. Through these programs ex-offenders will enter into one of the various community organized rehabilitation centers run by both the communities and nonprofits. By making these programs mandatory after being released ex- offenders will receive both the knowledge and skills needed to be successful in this world. Therefore they will having more opportunities for sustainable employment and be able to provide a better life for themselves and their families.

Scope of the Problem

Past Policy  There is actually no written policy that stops ex- offenders form getting hired, but there is a law that gives employers the right whether or not they want to hire ex-offenders  This law makes its mandatory for employers to ask for criminal records on applications  If a criminal is convicted they can either accept or deny their application but, many deny their application due to the matter of not being able to trust them

Current Policy  Virginia CARES  operates a statewide network of ex-offender reentry programs  Wisdom in Networking Program  The program provide GED and computer training, help with resumes and interviews, and a hot meal and clothes, too.  Riverplace  Run by Pleasant View UMC; owns three businesses in the Abingdon area in which ex-offenders work

Policy Options  Community-based option  Organizations- partnerships between the community and non-profits

Teamwork