Nationally, nearly 70 percent of those released from incarceration will re-enter the prison system within three years. However, Reentry+ has continued to have recidivism rates dramatically less than local, state, and national rates. Recidivism is often related to a formerly incarcerated person’s ability to access employment within the community. Abe Brown Ministries is an official Reentry+ provider, a program that addresses the problems, concerns and expectations surrounding employing those previously incarcerated.

Clients in the Reentry+ program are non-violent/non-sexual formerly incarcerated persons, thoroughly vetted, and continually screened for illegal drug use. Also, they engage in a 6-week Professional Development Training course, preparing them for interviews and providing them with a workforce mindset. Additionally, Reentry+ follows each client for one year, providing them with a case manager, career coach and often a life coach for their continued support.

Since 2014, Reentry+ has successfully placed more than 745 persons with a lived incarceration experience at 550 employers throughout Tampa Bay and the surrounding areas.

The success of the program is measured not only by the number of individuals placed with employers, but also by their retention with employers and the feedback we receive. The program has a near 70 percent retention rate within the first year of a client’s employment, far exceeding standard retention rates. Employers often report experiences with participants as positive, citing their high-motivation and excellent preparation.

Reentry+ has placed participants within the following industries:

• • Warehouse & Distribution
  • Restaurant & Food Services
  • Customer Service & Sales
  • Building Grounds/Maintenance
  • Construction
  • Landscape & Grounds Keeping
  • Light Industrial/Manufacturing
  • Transportation and Logistics

The Reentry+ industry portfolio continues to expand and we are highly committed to satisfying requests of our business partners, as well as providing accountability to and for our participants.

Career Coaches will conduct site visits for the first year and are available at any time. Business partners are offered Free Federal Bonding and are eligible for up to $9,600 in Work Opportunity Tax Credit, per employee over two years.