Workforce Development and Juvenile Justice Publications
This resource roundup highlights materials developed with the Annie E. Casey Foundation’s funding. Each resource shares new knowledge and findings for those seeking to improve employment-related well-being for youth with experiences in the justice system.
“All young people who have had contact with the juvenile or criminal justice systems need paid work experiences, support and guidance as they begin to prepare for employment and careers,” says David E. Brown, senior associate with the Foundation’s Juvenile Justice Strategy Group. “Three new resources provide data, guidance and lessons for service providers, employers, policymakers and advocates who want youth with justice involvement to succeed in the workforce.”
Community-Based Workforce Engagement Supports for Youth and Young Adults Involved in the Legal System
By the Urban Institute
This report summarizes findings from an exploratory study of community-based workforce development programs, inside and outside of the workplace, to determine what support is available to young people with justice system experiences, who face significant barriers to employment.
The report suggests young people can better avoid employment obstacles through community-based support services. These enable them to gain paid work experience, connect to mentors, meet basic needs and heal from trauma while setting and achieving professional goals.
Reducing Structural Barriers to School and Work for People With Juvenile Records
By the Council of State Governments Justice Center
This report explores how barriers to education and employment affect young people who have had juvenile justice system experiences in California, Florida, Illinois, Iowa, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Vermont and Washington.
The research examines how involvement in the juvenile justice system creates lasting consequences for education and employment for youth and young adults. It provides recommendations for policymakers and other state leaders to encourage these youths to continue their education or secure and retain employment.
An accompanying tool kit identifies five key areas where improvements to states’ policies can expand education and employment opportunities for people with juvenile records.
Additional information can be found in a recording of a companion webinar held on May 22, 2021.
Job Training for Youth With Justice Involvement
By the National Youth Employment Coalition
This tool kit fosters meaningful collaboration between professionals in the workforce development system and the juvenile justice system.
It offers readers the following:
- Evidence-based practices in youth workforce development.
- An overview of the workforce system funded under the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), legislation designed to help both job seekers and employers succeed in the labor market and compete in the global economy.
- Advice on improving WIOA-funded services and access for youth with justice system involvement at the local level.
- Guidance on forming effective interagency partnerships.
The tool kit allows practitioners in both sectors to gain the information and guidance they need for effective, efficient partnerships with and for young people as they pursue careers and a brighter future.
