The Sacramento County Probation Department was honored for its Career Training Partnership program by the California State Association of Counties (CSAC) at the Board of Supervisors Meeting today, November 15, 2016. Probation was one of 12 counties across four population categories recognized for its innovative program to citizens.
Since the mid-90s, CSAC, which represents county government before the California Legislature, administrative agencies and the federal government and places a strong emphasis on educating the public about the value and need for county programs and services, has honored the most innovative programs developed and implemented by California Counties through Challenge Awards. These unique awards acknowledge the creative spirit of California county governments as they find effective and cost-saving ways to provide programs and services to their citizens. This year, Probation's Career Training Partnership program – one of 14 programs from 12 counties – was honored with a 2016 Challenge Award by CSAC's judging panel amongst a record 279 program entries across 41 counties, making it the second time in the past three years one of Probation's programs was selected to receive a Challenge Award.
"Sacramento County has proven once again to be a local government leader in providing innovative, invaluable programs to its residents" said DeAnn Baker, CSAC Deputy Executive Director of Legislative Affairs.
The Career Training Partnership program was created through a collaboration between Sacramento County Probation, Northern California Construction Training and Sacramento County Office of Education in order to help clients who often face the challenges of finding 'felon-friendly' employers who are willing to hire them and developing the necessary skills to obtain gainful employment. The nine-month program identifies clients who meet specific program eligibility criteria and provides education and training in various construction-related fields, facilitates referrals to jobs, provides transportation, and monitors participant progress.
As of June 2016, Career Training Partnership program has had a 92% job placement rate for graduates. Probation clients have acquired 64 job placements and have been awarded 35 GEDs or diplomas. To further support successful reentry, the program has assisted clients with reinstating their driver's licenses and repairing and insuring their vehicles in order to address employment and transportation needs.
David Liebler, CSAC's Director of Public Affairs & Member Services said of Probation, "The Sacramento County Probation Department is a leader in developing innovative, effective programs that are reducing recidivism and helping probationers become contributing members of the community."
As a Challenge Award-winner, the Sacramento County Probation Department will receive state and national exposure. In addition to the recognition received before the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors today, the Career Training Partnership program will be highlighted in county best practices videos, which will be released early next year.
For more information about this program, please contact Assistant Chief Deputy Dave Semon at SemonD@SacCounty.net.
