Every day, more than 1,600 incarcerated people on average will be released from federal and state prisons across the nation. Many of these individuals will face immeasurable hardship as they attempt to reintegrate into a society that unfortunately has long forgotten about them. Between the struggle to find stable employment and housing, the stigma associated with their criminal records, and the constant risk of poverty and recidivism, it is crucial that those who are impacted most by the criminal justice system are afforded a second chance and pathways to become thriving members of our society.
April is Second Chance Month, a time to reaffirm our commitment to giving individuals who are justice-impacted a chance to rebuild their lives and create a better future for themselves and their families. America has always been a land of opportunity, where anyone can become the best version of themselves regardless of background or circumstance. Offering a second chance to the formerly incarcerated is not just an American value but will also help create safer and more prosperous communities across our nation.
At ViaPath Technologies, we believe that a second chance can come in the way of technology and digital solutions, which can help millions of people at every touchpoint in the criminal justice system acquire the education and training they need for successful reintegration. ViaPath’s integrated correctional technology solutions currently serve approximately 2,100 facilities and 1.6 million inmates in every state, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Moreover, our products and services have been deployed in 32 state Department of Corrections agencies and many of the nation’s largest city and county facilities.
One of the most effective ways to provide second chances is through education and job training. Access to education and training can open doors to new career paths and help individuals develop skills that are in demand in today’s job market. ViaPath is committed to providing these opportunities through a number of reintegration services and robust partnerships with organizations in the education and training space.
Last year, ViaPath launched two new partnerships with CypherWorx and Honest Jobs, organizations dedicated to helping formerly incarcerated individuals attain the skills and knowledge they need to reenter the workforce. CypherWorx provides online training courses that cover a wide range of topics from computer skills to healthcare, while Honest Jobs connects job seekers with employers who are willing to give individuals with criminal records fair-chance employment.
Through partnerships and resources, ViaPath has helped individuals in the criminal justice system access nearly 5 million eLearning hours on our Inspire tablets. This access to education and training is already making a significant difference in the lives of individuals seeking a successful reintegration following incarceration.
This month, as we celebrate the strides we have made in creating a positive impact for millions of people, ViaPath Technologies reaffirms our commitment to continue providing opportunities for those individuals who have been impacted by the criminal justice system. And to the hundreds of thousands of hardworking Americans who are released from incarceration each year: ViaPath Technologies stands with you, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to helping you build a better life on the other side.
About ViaPath Technologies
ViaPath provides advanced communications, technology and management solutions that facilitate meaningful connections, provide educational opportunities, and enable successful reintegration for both current and formerly incarcerated individuals. ViaPath is headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia, with an employee presence throughout North America. To learn more, please visit viapath.com.