Since November 2002, Goodwill Industries of the Inland Northwest’s (Spokane, WA) Community Gateway program has provided vocational services to recently released criminal offenders.  The Community Gateway’s goal to help find work for this specific population and to prevent recidivism wins Goodwill Industries International’s Workplace Skills Award.

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.  Community Gateway program services exist to reduce this trend.  Program services include assessment, job placement, and job retention.  Job placement is the primary goal, realizing that employment and income are the single factors in reducing recidivism.  Its also provides pre-release activities that help prepare inmates for employability.  Community Gateway works not only to assist participants in securing employment, but also to dispel the pervasive misperception that ex-offenders are dishonest and unemployable. 

“The Workplace Skills Award recognizes a Goodwill program that addresses the specific and unique needs of a targeted population,” says George W. Kessinger, President and CEO of Goodwill Industries International.  “This Community Gateway program aims to help ex-offenders gain confidence and find work while addressing the personal challenges that often impact their ability to function in society after incarceration.”

Community Gateway helps participants set realistic goals, learn skills and prepare for job interviews.  It maintains an extensive network of potential employers to help ensure job retention.  Strong relationships between Goodwill and several state and local agencies, including the Washington Department of Corrections, Spokane Neighborhood Action programs, treatment centers, and halfway houses are integral to the program.  In 2004, the program served 248 people.  Ninety percent were placed in jobs, and 80 percent had a 90-day retention rate. 

The purpose of the Workplace Skills Award is to recognize, reward and share best practices for carrying out the first strategy of the Goodwill Industries 21st Century Initiative:  Prepare people with special needs for the 21st Century workforce.  Goodwill Industries of the Inland Northwest will receive their award at Goodwill’s annual meeting on June 27.