April is Second Chance Month
As we recognize Second Chance Month this April, I want to express my enthusiasm for the outstanding progress that Maryland Correctional Enterprises (MCE) has made in empowering our Program Participants in embracing and capitalizing on the transformative possibilities of a second chance. The MCE Continuing Allocation of Reentry Services (C.A.R.E.S.) team recently concluded its C.A.R.E.S. Program at the Central Maryland Correctional Facility (CMCF), with a graduating class of five program participants. Program Participant, Mr. Jackson, left his fellow program participants with these encouraging words:
“I challenge you to take what you have learned in your MCE classes and go out from this place with passion, with a driven determination to use your knowledge and your skills to make a difference in the world.”
During this impactful session, MCE’s program participants were provided with comprehensive training, covering essential life skills through the following modules:
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Conflict Resolution in the Workplace
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Healthy Relationships
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Financial Literacy – expertly led by Prosperity Partners Financial Freedom Program
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Employment Readiness
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Prepare
Recently, C.A.R.E.S. implemented a new resume program. This program assists program participants, scheduled for release within thirty days, with creating professional resumes and cover letters. Recognizing the prevalent employment history gaps, this program enables our participants to concisely address these gaps by highlighting acquired skills and articulating their future aspirations. Both printed and digital copies of the resumes will be provided to the participants, with the digital version being available upon request. Resumes will be retained by the C.A.R.E.S. team and categorized by skill-set. Employers who contact MCE inquiring about any participants’ eligibility for employment, the C.A.R.E.S. team will provide resumes of those participants who meet the employer’s needs.
The opportunity for a second chance is not initiated upon the release of a program participant; rather, it takes root the moment they consciously choose and commit to effecting a positive change. Carl Brand said it best, “Though no one can go back and make a brand-new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand-new ending.”
For more information on C.A.R.E.S. programming offered by MCE, please visit our website at https://mce.md.gov/Rentry.
Written by: Marsha G.