Targeting Jobs for the Reentry Population in Tarrant County

There is little doubt that the current economy poses significant challenges for those seeking opportunities for work, particularly, if they are part of the reentry population. The Employment and Vocational Development (EVD) subcommittee seeks to address the employment barriers faced by previously incarcerated persons that have returned to Tarrant County. This subcommittee functions to educate employers and develop strategies to assist the reentry population in its transition back into mainstream society. During 2009, the EVD subcommittee will explore funding that may come to Tarrant County through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 and, the Second Chance Act in order to ensure that those reentering this community have employment opportunities. One of the areas that holds great promise for job creation and growth is Energy Conservation.

Green Jobs

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, sometimes known as the Stimulus Bill, will award 4 million dollars in competitive grants under Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block grants. The EVD subcommittee will actively seek partnerships to apply for this type of funding and make sure that there are training and job opportunities for the reentry population.  At this time, it has not been announced when this funding will be available, we will update this information when it becomes available on this web-site.

The EVD subcommittee anticipates that the type of training and job opportunities most likely to come to Tarrant County are in construction, weatherization and retro-fitting buildings for energy efficiency. The “green” industry, as it is sometimes referred to, is predicted to grow despite current economic downturn. The U.S. Conference of Mayor’s report entitled, Current and Potential Green Jobs in the U.S. Economy, estimates approximately 45,000 jobs will be created in the commercial building sector.

Current Activities:

• Periodic meetings to identify community resources and persons available to assist with employment concerns of the previously incarcerated while galvanizing interest and support for this important issue in our community.
• Assisting in supporting ongoing community activities to facilitate employment of the previously incarcerated. (e.g. background friendly job fairs, employer awareness, etc).

• Register for the Second Annual Felony and/or Misdemeanor Friendly Community Career Fair here.
• Learn more about Working with a Criminal Conviction and Texas Policies regarding occupational licensing for persons with a criminal background.
• Please visit Hard2Hire, to search misdemeanor and/or felony-friendly employment opportunities in Tarrant County.
• For employers interested in hiring ex-offenders, learn more about the Work Opportunity Tax Credit and Federal Bonding Program.