Re-Entry Programs

Workforce Development Programs through the DOC

Each year, we place over 2,000 people back into the workforce. Our workforce development programs are created for those who are re-entering the workforce after incarceration. We set you up with a case manager to help with job training, job readiness and placement.

First Step ID

The First Step ID Program helps inmates obtain identity documents they need to be able to apply for employment and benefits. We make the process simple and fast by filling out the paperwork for you. Once released, participants can come to our office to pick up their documents.

Contact Adele Hedgespeth at 215-739-1600.

Homeless Veterans’ Re-Entry Program (HVRP)

The Homeless Veterans' Reintegration Program (HVRP) is an employment-focused grant program of the Department of Labor, Veterans' Employment and Training Service (DOL-VETS), that focuses exclusively on employment for homeless veterans. The U.S. Department of Labor considers HVRP to be their most successful model for moving homeless veterans back into jobs.

HVRP has two core objectives: (1) to provide services to assist in reintegrating homeless veterans into meaningful employment within the labor force, and (2) to stimulate the development of effective service delivery systems that will address the complex problems facing homeless veterans. We use a veteran-centered approach to develop an Individual Employment Plan (IEP) based on an individual’s strengths, barriers, and preferences.

Along with job placement and training, the program includes housing assistance and referrals to VA services.

Download the intake form.

Pathway Home

Pathway Home offers comprehensive pre-release workforce services to inmates, as well as immediate post-release services. Job developers frequently check-in with employers to resolve any barriers or issues, and case managers to work with participants to identify and connect them with supportive services that remedy barriers to job retention.

Pre-release services will include career exploration, developing individual development plans, discharge planning and post-release case management, job training and placement, and referrals to project partners for support. The goal of the program is twofold: (1) individuals remain employed in the fourth quarter after exit and (2) the jobs provide family-sustaining wages that ultimately reduce recidivism rates.

Taking Care of Business (PHL TCB)

Philadelphia Taking Care of Business (TCB) Clean Corridors Program invests in people and small businesses by creating employment opportunities for residents and keeping Philadelphia’s neighborhood commercial corridors clean. Our TCB team sweeps sidewalks and removes litter along Castor Avenue, Kensington Avenue, Allegheny Avenue, and around McPherson Square.

TCB has four main goals:

Maintain clean commercial districts.
Promote the economic success of neighborhood businesses by creating an inviting environment for shoppers.
Create work opportunities for Philadelphians.
Grow the capacity of local small businesses and organizations that provide cleaning services.

Read more about PHL TCB.

Kensington Initiative for Needle Disposal (KIND)

Kensington Initiative for Needle Disposal creates a source of income for community members by employing individuals who have lived experience with drug use or homelessness. Cleaning crews collect and dispose of used sharps and other drug paraphernalia from the streets of Kensington.

If you see needles in Kensington or would like Narcan, please call or text the direct KIND line: 267-259-7541.

Past/Completed Programs

Community Life Improvement Program (CLIP)

The Community Life Improvement Program (CLIP) helps Philadelphians make the City a nicer place to live. As part of this mission, CLIP:

Removes graffiti vandalism from buildings, street signs, and other street fixtures.
Enforces the City’s regulations to make sure vacant lots and areas are kept clean.
Lends supplies and offer trash pickup for CLIP-coordinated neighborhood cleanups.
Provides adult non-violent offenders the opportunity to complete their community service sentences by cleaning and beautifying the city.

To report a property that is not being maintained or to request graffiti removal, residents can contact CLIP through Philly311.

Read more about CLIP.

Incarcerated Veterans Transition Program (IVTP)

The Incarcerated Veterans’ Transition Program (IVTP) is a grant managed by the U.S. Department of Labor, Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (USDOL/VETS). Under the Incarcerated Veterans’ Transition Program (IVTP), we provided supportive services to eligible Incarcerated Veterans who were “at risk” of becoming homeless. The intent of the program was to provide direct services through a case management approach that leverages Federal, State and local resources. Incarcerated Veterans were connected with appropriate employment and life skills support as they transition from correctional facilities into the community.

Survives included: