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REENTRY PROGRAMS
Reentry Works!
In April of 2022, the United Way of Berks County awarded a $1.2 million, 3-year grant that allows BCPS to operate Reentry Works.
Reentry Works is open to individuals in Berks County with current or past justice system involvement. The program helps clients become reliable and successful employees and helps address issues of unemployment and the underemployment of former inmates returning to the community. The program uses a case-managed approach and creates individualized employment plans for our clients. The program’s curriculum includes skill, education, and experience assessments; financial literacy; employment preparedness; computer labs; and employer recruitment.
Funding for this grant is through a $10 million gift United Way of Berks County received from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott.
Call to make an appointment: 484-260-3860
WALK-INS WELCOME
NEW!
Rebuilding
Reentrants &
Reading
The Rebuilding Reentrants and Reading (R3) Program is a registered pre-apprenticeship program in the construction trades.
This 8-week program is comprised of three things:
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Career & technical education at Reading Muhlenberg Career & Technology Center and Berks Career and Technology Center
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Hands-on learning at GoggleWorks Center for the Arts Woodworking Studio
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Employment focused cognitive curriculum and job readiness skills delivered by BCPS staff
Participants have the ability to receive:
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Up to $2,300 stipend over 8 weeks
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Job search and placement assistance
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Flagger and OSHA Safety Certifications
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Credit toward Associated Builders and Contractors Keystone and Eastern PA Chapters PLUS select Berks Career and Technology Center Apprenticeship Programs
R3 is the only registered pre-apprenticeship program in Pennsylvania
exclusively serving reentrants!
Work in Progress (WIP)
WIP is a comprehensive reentry workforce development program for current or former justice-involved individuals who have a mental health or dual diagnosis and are currently receiving case management services with a mental health provider.
As part of the program, participants will:
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Undergo a comprehensive assessment to determine appropriate service provision.
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Receive one-on-one and group instruction for job preparedness and essential skills training, financial literacy, and a workforce-focused cognitive behavioral intervention curriculum.
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Develop a comprehensive employment plan with the WIP case manager to establish goals, objectives, and tasks.
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Work with WIP CM and Employment Development Specialist to identify prospective employment opportunities.
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Receive ongoing case management and retention support for at least one year.
R3 Prep for Young Adults
R3 Prep YA serves young adults (18-24 years of age) with justice involvement who lack a diploma or high school equivalency.
R3 Prep YA couples academic attainment with an innovative approach to opening career choice opportunities for young adults to further their education and acquire fundamental skills in construction trades that lead to lifelong gainful employment. BCPS provides mentor, case management, cognitive programming, and introduction to the R3 program. Our partner in this program, PA CareerLink Berks County Young Adult Program, provides educational component. Stipends and paid work experiences are available to participants. Enrollment occurs on an ongoing basis and the length of the participation is individualized depending on their academic level.
Participants are prepared for entrance into the Rebuilding, Reentrants & Reading (R3).