Employer Outreach Services | Department of Youth Services

In Partnership with the Massachusetts Department of Youth Services

Overview

In collaboration with The Department of Youth Services (DYS), Commonwealth Corporation created an initiative to develop and connect youth to meaningful employment opportunities in Massachusetts. According to research, the criminal justice label often prevents many people from obtaining employment. However, meaningful employment is an important predictor of successful re-entry. As such, under funding from the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) Second Chance Act “Smart on Juvenile Justice” grant, DYS and the Commonwealth Corporation hired Employer Outreach Specialists (EOS) to manage employer engagement across the Commonwealth. The primary function of the EOS is to create mutually beneficial relationships with employers in Massachusetts interested in employing systems-involved youth.

The role of employment in helping youth re-focus and become successful returning citizens cannot be under-estimated. Thus, the role of employers is crucial in helping youth become successful returning citizens. The Second Chance Grant, part of the Second Chance Act passed by Congress and signed into law in 2008 signifies the scale and importance of robust efforts to address employment challenges for systems-involved youth.

Commonwealth Corporation and DYS are asking for your assistance in helping transform the lives of youth re-entering and re-engaging with their communities by helping to provide employment paths and meaningful work opportunities. We believe fully that we can make a difference and transform lives, communities, and society at large. For more information, please contact Danielle at [email protected] or click below to get involved.

Resources

As the juvenile justice agency for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, the Department of Youth Services promotes positive change in the youth in our care and custody. Our mission is to make communities safer by improving the life outcomes for youth in our care. We achieve our mission through investing in highly qualified staff and a service continuum that engages youth, families, and communities in strategies that support positive youth development.

DYS serves youth between the ages of 12-21 who have been committed to its care and custody by the courts, referred by the police upon arrest, and youth previously committed to its custody who choose to engage in voluntary services with DYS (Youth Engaged in Services or YES).

This resource outlines 10 major steps – along with several sub-steps- that are necessary to design a sector strategy program design. This resource includes tips and general guidance about completing each step.

Commonwealth Corporation is a quasi-public agency that was established in 1996 under the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development. 


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