Goodwill NNE’s Workforce Services supports people reentering their communities through partnerships with Maine correctional centers 

April is Second Chance Month, a time to recognize the importance of supporting the safe and successful reentry of the millions of people released from incarceration each year. Goodwill NNE partners with correctional centers throughout Maine to help individuals reenter the workforce and learn new skills. This better positions them for future employment opportunities.  

“It takes the whole community to wrap around individuals as they reenter to be successful,” said Goodwill NNE’s senior director of Workforce Services, David Wurm. “Goodwill Northern New England is proud to partner with state and county correctional facilities, education and training partners, employers and other agencies in this important work.” 

These partners include Bolduc Correctional Facility (Warren), Maine Correctional Center (Windham) and Long Creek Youth Development Center (South Portland). Goodwill NNE supports on average 20-30 Bolduc Correctional Facility residents annually.  

“We meet our Workforce clients where they’re at in local jails, prisons, reentry centers and other correctional facilities,” Wurm said. “To provide individualized and cohort workforce development services, which provide necessary skills, training and supports for successful reentry.” 

Supporting reentering communities after incarceration

Through these partnerships, Goodwill NNE’s Workforce Services help folks who are approaching the end of their sentences. The individuals enroll in Goodwill NNE services and connect with a career advisor who helps them find or keep work. Clients are also eligible for financial assistance with employment-related costs. Work clothes and taxi or shuttle costs to get to and from their work site are common.

Career advisors also talk to clients about what resources they will need to be successful in the community. For example, access to other services, housing, work and more.  

“As a Workforce provider and employer, Goodwill believes in investing in people to support their work and life goals. This is seen through our own employees’ flexible, stable jobs, career pathways, and unique employee benefits like Employee Life Navigation,” said Wurm.  

Goodwill NNE works with Southern Maine Women’s Reentry Center to offer employment opportunities for residents in Goodwill stores. These women are hardworking, contributing members of their teams. Once they complete their sentence, they can continue working for Goodwill if they choose.  

“Successfully transitioning back into society and reaching stability after incarceration can be challenging,” said Wurm. “Exploring employment opportunities or having a job lined up ahead of time helps give folks the foundation they need to be successful.” 

To learn more about Goodwill NNE’s Workforce Services, visit goodwillnne.org/programs/workforce-services/.