"In everything, set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us." Titus 2: 7-8

The formerly incarcerated have several obstacles upon release and one of the largest issues which cause recidivism is employment.  One of the most significant challenges they encounter is securing employment, which plays a pivotal role in reducing recidivism rates. The main issue lies in the negative perceptions surrounding the formerly incarcerated, making it difficult for them to find work. However, research indicates that these individuals often exhibit exceptional work ethic, loyalty, and appreciation for opportunities. The consequences of failing to secure employment are also higher for the formerly incarcerated compared to others and a lack of effective job training and career planning further compounds the problem. In response, Brand 316 has made career training a central component of our 52-week program, recognizing its critical role in facilitating successful reentry. 

Many of the people recently released from prison have little to no effective job training and have never contemplated a long term career.  It is indisputable that employment and recidivism are directly related.  Stable employment is crucial for the formerly incarcerated to establish economic stability, meet their basic needs and support themselves and their families. Studies consistently highlight the direct relationship between unemployment and recidivism rates. Individuals who fail to find work soon after release are at a higher risk of reoffending within a few years. Career training programs bridge the gap between release and employment by providing the necessary skills, job readiness training, and connections with employers. By equipping individuals with the tools for successful reentry, career training significantly reduces the likelihood of relapse into criminal behavior, leading to enhanced public safety and cost savings for the criminal justice system.  There are a variety of issues that we will cover in this section which discuss both the perceptions of the formerly incarcerated and how we effectively train them not just for a job, but for a career.  

Our society and the church as a whole have in many cases made up their mind about the formerly incarcerated.  1 out of every 4 Americans has a criminal record which includes your Church and your work.  Also, the average American breaks 3 criminal laws every single day – none of us are perfect.  These perceptions often contribute to the challenges faced by people with a criminal record as they seek to reintegrate into society. It is important to note that not all people hold these perceptions and many are doing all they can to assist those in need with reintegrating successfully back into society.  

Stigma and Negative Stereotypes: One prevalent perception is that people with a criminal record are inherently dangerous, untrustworthy, or morally deficient. This stigma can lead to the marginalization and exclusion of the formerly incarcerated from various aspects of society, including employment, housing, and social relationships.  It can also contribute to a sense of shame and low self-esteem, hindering their ability to move forward in a positive and productive manner.  Ironically, most people currently work with or have hired people with criminal records to help around the house, yard or for their small business but simply do not know it nor want to address it.  

Lack of Trust and Skepticism: One prevailing perception is that individuals with a criminal record are inherently untrustworthy. Many people are skeptical about the ability of the formerly incarcerated to change their behavior and reintegrate into society successfully. Concerns about the potential for relapse or recidivism can result in hesitancy to provide opportunities or support.  With such a high recidivism rate within the United States the fear is not unfounded, but the root cause of the high recidivism rate is in part due to society’s unwillingness to forgive and give them a second chance.  

Limited Second Chances: Society's perception often reflects a belief that individuals with a criminal record should face ongoing punishment and have limited chances for redemption or rehabilitation. This can result in societal resistance to offering employment, housing, or other forms of support that are crucial for successful reintegration.  We see this daily and it is so very unfortunate.  If you believe in our criminal justice system you must trust that we were punished for our choices and have paid our debt to society.  This does not mean we do not and should not get a second chance.  We all fall short and we all fail.  

Lack of Understanding and Empathy: This seems to be one of the larger issues when it comes to perceptions because many in our society have the “out of sight, out of mind” mindset and do not fully understand the situation and choose to never look at the person on a case by case level.  Society's perceptions can be shaped by limited understanding of the complexities of the criminal justice system, the challenges faced by the formerly incarcerated, and the potential for personal growth and transformation. This lack of understanding can lead to a lack of empathy and hinder efforts to create supportive environments for successful reentry.

Limited Potential for Rehabilitation: Some people hold the belief that individuals with a criminal record are unlikely to change or rehabilitate themselves.  This perception undermines the efforts of those who have taken steps towards personal growth and transformation during their incarceration. It can perpetuate a cycle of punishment rather than focusing on rehabilitation and reintegration into society.  There are few people that have been to prison that have any desire to actually go back yet the high rate of recidivism shows that lack of opportunity forces many back into their old cycle of making bad choices.  Our training focuses on this specifically.  

The difference between a career and job can be easy to understand for many that have seen positive examples through role models like their parents or mentors, but what if someone has never seen it firsthand.  We initially make sure every member of Brand 316 understands the differences between a career and a job.  Unfortunately, many of the formerly incarcerated do not have any true understanding of what this actually means.  We discuss this in detail because it is important to fully understand and make it possible to not only envision a future years from now but understand the time investment now will show returns long term.  We provide several different examples that are relatable to the specific group but here is a small example.  

What is a job versus a career? 

A job is a specific employment role or position that an individual holds within an organization or industry. It primarily focuses on performing specific tasks or responsibilities in exchange for compensation.  Jobs are often short-term or part-time in nature and can vary in terms of skill requirements and qualifications.

Example of a Job: Imagine an individual working as a delivery driver for a courier company. Their job involves transporting packages and ensuring their timely delivery to various locations. While this job provides income and specific responsibilities, it may not necessarily align with long-term professional aspirations or offer significant opportunities for growth within the company.

In contrast, a career encompasses a long-term professional journey that involves growth, development, and advancement in a chosen field. It entails strategic planning, continuous learning, and a series of interconnected jobs and experiences over time.

Example of a Career:

Let's consider a person who starts as a junior marketing associate in a marketing firm. They begin by handling basic tasks such as market research and report generation. Over time, they actively seek opportunities to develop their skills and knowledge through training programs, attending industry conferences, and taking on progressively more challenging projects. As they gain experience and demonstrate their capabilities, they may be promoted to a marketing manager role, overseeing campaigns and leading a team. In the long term, their career path may involve further promotions, such as becoming a director of marketing or even starting their own marketing consultancy.

The key distinctions between a job and a career can be summarized in several ways but these are simple to understand for most:

Duration and Scope: A job is often short-term or focused on specific tasks, whereas a career extends over a more extended period, encompassing multiple roles and responsibilities. 

Growth and Advancement: Jobs may not offer significant opportunities for growth or advancement, whereas a career involves continuous learning, skill development, and progression within a chosen field. A career trains you for learning more and taking on more long term responsibility.  

Personal Aspirations and Goals: A job is primarily driven by immediate employment needs and income, while a career aligns with an individual's long-term professional goals and aspirations.

Professional Development:  Jobs may provide immediate opportunities to gain experience, but careers involve strategic planning, setting goals, and actively seeking opportunities to develop skills and expertise.

It's important to note that while a career often encompasses a series of jobs, not every job contributes to a career. Some jobs may serve as temporary or transitional roles, providing necessary income or experience while an individual seeks more aligned opportunities to advance their career.  Understanding the distinction between a job and a career enables the formerly incarcerated to make informed decisions, set meaningful goals, and pursue professional growth and fulfillment in the long term.  It also helps them better understand the financial rewards more clearly along with the importance of investing time in order to become better professionally.  

The career training program for Brand 316 offers several benefits for the formerly incarcerated, helping them reintegrate into society, build a sustainable livelihood, and make positive contributions to their communities.  It also gives them the ability to build confidence in themselves and envision a future that does not involve crime or prison.  In terms of instilling long-term thinking, we encourage our members to envision a future beyond their criminal history. They help participants set goals, create career plans, and develop a sense of purpose. By focusing on long-term aspirations, they can break free from the cycle of reoffending and build sustainable, fulfilling careers.

Short Term Benefits

Skill Development: Career training equips them with industry-specific skills that increase their employability. For example, vocational training programs can teach practical skills like carpentry, plumbing, or culinary arts, enabling participants to secure jobs in these fields upon release.  We have thankfully been able to set up strategic partnerships for our members.

Confidence and Self-Esteem: Career training helps boost confidence and self-esteem among the formerly incarcerated. By acquiring new skills and knowledge, individuals gain a sense of accomplishment and regain their belief in their own abilities. This renewed confidence translates into improved job performance and the ability to adapt to new challenges.  It also steers their thinking away from short term gains with a stronger belief in themselves and the long term.

Employment Opportunities: We connect members of Brand 316 with immediate jobs, networking opportunities, and mentorships. This assistance helps bridge the gap between incarceration and employment, increasing the chances of securing a job shortly after release.

Economic Stability: Being employed while also being provided career training gives the formerly incarcerated financial stability and reduces the likelihood of returning to criminal activities. A steady income helps meet basic needs, support their families, and rebuild their lives.

Long Term Benefits

Long-Term Thinking: It instills a long-term mindset, encouraging them to envision a future beyond immediate circumstances. By setting goals and mapping out career trajectories, participants gain a sense of direction and purpose, reducing the likelihood of recidivism.  The strength of focusing on the long term is a huge mindset change and pivotal for success.

Professional Development: Career training programs emphasize continuous learning and professional development. We encourage and assist our members in updating their skills and we have strategic partnerships to help them in pursuing advanced certifications or degrees.  This commitment to ongoing growth opens doors to higher-paying jobs and increased opportunities for advancement.

Enhanced Employability: Career training equips the formerly incarcerated with the qualities that define an ideal employee. These qualities include (covered in detail also in the life skills section) reliability, punctuality, effective communication, teamwork, problem-solving skills, and a strong work ethic. By demonstrating these attributes, individuals become more attractive to employers and increase their chances of securing and retaining employment.

Social Reintegration: It provides a supportive and structured environment where individuals can rebuild social connections and develop positive relationships. Networking opportunities and mentorship programs offered with our program help participants establish professional contacts and receive guidance from experienced individuals in their chosen field.  It also makes professional communication much easier because our weekly meetings train them, through real life discussions proper methods of expressing themselves in a professional environment.

The qualities that define an ideal employee (just a few of many listed), cultivated through our career training, include:

Responsibility and Accountability: We emphasize personal responsibility and accountability, helping our members develop a strong work ethic and take ownership of their actions. These qualities are highly valued by employers, as they contribute to a productive and reliable workforce.

Adaptability and Flexibility: We expose individuals to diverse work environments and encourage adaptability to change through our training. Individuals learn to embrace new challenges, adjust to different roles and responsibilities, and develop the resilience necessary to thrive in dynamic work settings.

Strong Communication and Interpersonal Skills: The group training fosters effective communication and interpersonal skills, enabling individuals to collaborate with colleagues, resolve conflicts, and build positive relationships with supervisors and clients. These skills contribute to a harmonious work environment and enhance overall job performance.

Continuous Learning and Growth Mindset: Career training programs promote lifelong learning and a growth mindset. Participants develop a hunger for knowledge, seek opportunities for professional development, and exhibit a willingness to acquire new skills and adapt to evolving industry trends.

The formerly incarcerated who take part in our 52 week program must take an aptitude test and a career assessment test prior to starting specific training for careers or reintegration members.  The inclusion of aptitude and career assessment tests in our 52-week program holds several significant benefits for the formerly incarcerated seeking long-term success and reintegration into society.

First and foremost, these assessments provide us with valuable insights into the unique talents, abilities, and interests of each program member. By understanding what individuals are naturally inclined towards and where their strengths lie, we can effectively tailor their training and support to match their capabilities. This personalized approach increases the likelihood of success in their chosen career paths, as they are more likely to excel in areas where they have inherent aptitude and passion.

Identifying the strengths and weaknesses of program members through these assessments allows us to develop a holistic understanding of their skill sets. This comprehensive knowledge helps us create targeted interventions and training programs that address any areas in need of improvement. By recognizing and addressing weaknesses, individuals can acquire the necessary skills to overcome challenges and succeed in their chosen fields.

These assessments also serve as a foundation for effective career planning. By consulting with program members based on their assessment results, we can guide them in exploring suitable career paths aligned with their interests and abilities. This collaborative approach empowers individuals to envision a future beyond their incarceration, fostering a sense of hope and motivation. Setting long-term goals becomes more feasible, and they can develop a clear roadmap to achieve those objectives.

Furthermore, by providing program members with information about various career options, we enable them to make informed decisions regarding their future. Armed with knowledge about potential industries, job prospects, and required qualifications, individuals can make educated choices about their career paths and we can assist them in achieving those goals. This not only enhances their chances of success but also encourages them to actively engage in the training process, knowing they are working towards a meaningful and fulfilling career.

The aptitude and career assessment tests also play a crucial role in promoting self-awareness and personal growth. Through the feedback and insights gained from these assessments, individuals gain a deeper understanding of their own abilities, preferences, and potential. This self-awareness can foster a positive sense of identity and empower them to take ownership of their professional development. It enables them to make choices that align with their values and interests, leading to greater job satisfaction and a higher likelihood of long-term success.

The inclusion of aptitude and career assessment tests within our program provides formerly incarcerated individuals with numerous benefits. These assessments help us identify their strengths and weaknesses, customize their training, and guide them towards suitable career paths. By promoting self-awareness, informed decision-making and personalized support, we create an environment that fosters long-term success and facilitates a smooth reintegration process into society.

 Work Ethic: We train members and develop a strong work ethic by showcasing reliability, punctuality, and a commitment to completing tasks efficiently and effectively. Given their unique needs, it is crucial for them to demonstrate consistent dedication to their responsibilities.

Adaptability: Members are trained in and often face various challenges during their reintegration process. Thus, it is important for them to cultivate adaptability, displaying flexibility in handling new situations and quickly adjusting to shifting priorities and demands. They can exhibit adaptability by embracing changes in work environments, embracing new roles or responsibilities, and effectively navigating unexpected circumstances that may arise.

Communication Skills: Effective communication skills are essential for the formerly incarcerated to establish positive relationships and succeed in their professional and personal lives. This includes developing verbal and written communication skills, actively listening to others, and conveying information effectively with colleagues, customers, friends and family. They can demonstrate improved communication skills by participating actively in team discussions, expressing their thoughts clearly, and engaging in constructive dialogues.

Teamwork: Collaborating effectively with others and valuing diverse perspectives is particularly important for our members as they reintegrate into the workforce. They can contribute to a positive team dynamic by actively participating in team projects, group training sessions, respecting the opinions of others, and embracing a collaborative approach to problem-solving. By demonstrating their ability to work well with others, they can foster a supportive and inclusive work environment.

Problem-Solving Abilities: We train our members in enhancing their problem-solving abilities by cultivating strong analytical and critical thinking skills. This allows them to identify and resolve challenges they may encounter in the workplace and personally -  and make informed decisions. They can showcase their problem-solving skills by effectively analyzing situations, considering multiple perspectives, and proposing viable solutions to address complex issues.

Accountability: Taking ownership of their responsibilities, being answerable for their actions and outcomes, and learning from mistakes are crucial aspects for the formerly incarcerated personal and professional growth. They can demonstrate accountability by fulfilling their obligations, acknowledging and learning from any errors or missteps, and taking proactive measures to rectify them. By doing so, they can build trust and credibility in the workplace.

Emotional Intelligence: Developing emotional intelligence through training is vital for formerly incarcerated members as they navigate their reintegration journey. This involves understanding and managing their emotions, empathizing with others, and building positive relationships. They can demonstrate emotional intelligence by effectively managing stress, demonstrating empathy towards colleagues and customers, and cultivating positive interpersonal interactions.  It is a process that has to be taught.

Resilience: Anyone that has a criminal record often faces significant challenges and setbacks. Demonstrating resilience allows them to bounce back from adversity, maintain a positive attitude in challenging situations, and persevere in the face of obstacles. They can exhibit resilience by staying focused on their goals, seeking support when needed, and demonstrating determination and perseverance despite setbacks.

Self-Motivation: Being driven, proactive, setting goals, and continuously seeking personal and professional growth are essential for members of Brand 316. They can showcase self-motivation by taking initiative in their professional development, seeking opportunities for skill enhancement, and setting ambitious yet achievable goals to drive their progress which is all done through our training program.

Integrity: Acting with honesty, ethics, and moral principles is crucial for our members as they rebuild their lives. They can demonstrate integrity by consistently adhering to professional standards, live a life focused on Christ, maintaining confidentiality when required, and conducting themselves in an honest and ethical manner in all aspects of their work and their personal life.

Of course there are several other things we focus on targeting both long term personal and professional growth.  We do everything we can to prepare our members for long term success.