Mission

The Pathways Program is a transitional employment program that aims to decrease participants’ involvement in the criminal justice system and improve their employment, education and training outcomes. Individuals referred to this program are ages 20-35 and have been identified as being at risk of participating in, and/or being victims of violent crime.

Structure

The Program follows a three-phase model. The first phase is an intensive, nine-week classroom-based training that focuses on life and job skills. Phase two offers six months of subsidized employment, which helps participants gain real work experience, build positive work habits, and establish a record of employment. The third phase offers long-term retention and support services aimed at ensuring participants successfully transition to permanent unsubsidized employment, retain said employment, and continue to pursue their other self-identified personal and professional goals. Throughout every phase of the program, Pathways participants are offered a host of wraparound services including: transportation benefits, nutritional services, mental health services, housing assistance referrals, clothing and/or uniform assistance, access to a variety of pro-social extracurricular activities, and more.

Enrollment

The Program does not have open enrollment. Individuals are referred to the program by ONSE’s violence intervention initiative contractors or by government agencies.

Become an Employer Partner

Private and public-sector employer partners, who host participants for subsidized work experience, are key to the success of the Pathways program. Subsidized employment is a time-limited phase that helps participants gain real world experience, build positive work habits, and establish a consistent record of employment. Employers can sign up to learn more about hosting a Pathways participant here.