In South Jersey, by investing millions of dollars in workforce training and other skills for people on probation, a new program is aimed at ensuring someone’s past doesn’t predict their future. With an emphasis on those who’ve had prior drug offenses, the Judiciary’s Opportunities for Building Success (JOBS) program is helping people to find jobs, purpose and a fresh start.
The goal is to provide workforce development training and employment opportunities for people on parole through partnerships with higher education. A $3 million grant to support the program will also allow for internships, studies and college pathways.
The initiative was established by retired Superior Court Judge Mark Sandson and Stockton University President Harvey Kesselman, who was chair of the New Jersey Presidents’ Council, which represents New Jersey’s public, private, and community colleges and universities.
“We want to ramp this program up to meet as many probationers as possible in the state. And that is what the money is going to be earmarked for,” Kesselman said.
