For people released from prison or jail who are unable to secure a job immediately upon release, working in a transitional job can be the next best thing to permanent employment. Transitional jobs typically share these characteristics:

Relatively low-skill, entry level positions for individuals without substantial experience in the labor force

Frequent payment of wages, usually daily, so that employees have the money to support themselves immediately postrelease

Close supervision, mentoring, coaching, and case management for the individual during the period of holding a transitional job

Wage subsidies to the employer for a set period of time - often three months as a probationary period - that help to cover training and retention costs

Assistance from the community corrections program staff in helping the employer apply for tax credits

Training from community corrections on employability and soft skills.

Community corrections administrators should seek to establish transitional job programs in their communities.

Example: Blue Jacket, Allen County Community Corrections (IN)

Allen County Community Corrections has established "Blue Jacket," a nonprofit social enterprise to train, place, and support recently released individuals through transitional employment. Built around 30 hours of intensive job readiness training known as an "Employment Academy," Blue Jacket operates in a manner similar to the temporary service agency, but is able to provide more intensive follow-up and mentoring services in its role as a community corrections provider.

Transitional jobs initiatives are most effective when they keep the individual focused on securing employment, provide clear guidelines and practices for achieving success, and work closely with employers to offer support and financial benefits for their willingness to hire an ex-offender. With these goals in mind, community-based employment services organizations should be engaged to combine transitional work, training, and support effectively.

Example: Wildcat Service Corporation (NY)

Wildcat Service Corporation works in partnership with the state department of corrections to provide vocational and "work habits" training for chronically unemployed individuals, including those individuals participating in day reporting programs. Wildcat enrolls offenders in time subsidized and "supported" work for about six months and provides job placement for unsubsidized time employment, counseling, and referrals to other human and social support services.