News Release

• More Releases

Goodwill Industries Says Second Chance Act Will Help Stop Criminal Recidivism

Applauds Senate Judiciary for Taking Action

August 3, 2007

Rockville, MD – Goodwill Industries applauds the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee for unanimously passing the Second Chance Act, which would allow hundreds of thousands of people with criminal records to rejoin the community successfully. 

“The Second Chance Act will help stop the downward spiral of criminal recidivism through the integration of drug treatment and mental health services, job training, and family strengthening programs,” says George W. Kessinger, President and CEO of Goodwill Industries International. “It provides for long-term and ongoing employment solutions and a criminal justice system that help people find a path to self-sufficiency and financial independence through work. “

Recent statistics show that of the 650,000 people released from jails and prisons each year, seven out of 10 will commit new crimes within three years. According to the Re-Entry Policy Council, the vast majority of ex-offenders do not get the help they need to transition to a life of freedom.  For many former prisoners, that help may mean substance abuse treatment and health services, as well as skills training, job placement and post-employment support.  In 2006, about 100 local Goodwill agencies helped more than 54,000 current and former prisoners through a variety of programs, including job readiness, mentoring, housing, job placement and retention services. 

“We are reaching a national crisis in serving this group and helping people reintegrate into society,” says Kessinger.  “Now that the Senate Judiciary Committee has unanimously approved the bill, it’s time for the full Congress to pass the Second Chance Act and give the thousands of Americans who have paid their debt to society the second chance they deserve.”

See a Goodwill-produced video on ex-offenders.