Re-entering the Workforce

Man standing behind a table at an outdoor event promoting the Mon Valley Initiative. The table is covered with a tablecloth featuring the MVVI logo. There are water bottles, flyers, and brochures on the table. Behind him is a mural with a cartoonish dinosaur, lightning bolts, and the words 'Bike Shop'. To the right, a sign advertises COVID-19 mortgage assistance from PAHAF.

Overcome Barriers to Employment

MVI works with county, state, and federal probation and parole officers, as well as with educational institutions and training programs, to help people who have been involved in the criminal justice system overcome barriers to joining the workforce.

Mon Valley Initiative also created the Southwestern Pennsylvania Re-entry Coalition (SPARC) over 20 years ago, bringing together industry professionals to:

  • Coordinate available re-entry resources

  • Identify potential career paths and increase the number of employers willing to hire individuals who have interacted with the justice system

  • Address policy issues through information and advocacy

  • Increase connectivity across three levels of the justice system (county, state, and federal)

With support from MVI staff, individuals re-entering the workforce get access to education and information, and are matched with employers who will help them get a fresh start.

Part of a blue logo with the word 'SPARC' and a star symbol