Justice Connected Programs

Frederick County Workforce Services offers specialized support for individuals with past justice system involvement who are ready to take the next step in their employment journey. These programs provide opportunities to build job readiness skills, strengthen confidence, and access supports that make reconnecting with the workforce possible.

Explore below to learn more about our offerings: Rewriting the Story, Reconnection Roundtable, and other supports designed to help individuals prepare for and succeed in the workplace.

We also partner with businesses interested in creating inclusive hiring practices, offering resources and guidance to build a stronger, more diverse workforce.

To learn more about available programs or how your business can get involved, please contact:

Aaron Eleazer, Program Specialist
301-600-1867
aeleazer@frederickcountymd.gov

Rewriting the Story

Rewrite Your Story. Rebuild Your Future.

Rewriting the Story is a 4-session work readiness program for individuals reentering the workforce after incarceration or with other justice-related barriers. The program builds confidence, strengthens job search skills, and equips you with tools to tell your story in a way that opens doors to employment.

Through small group sessions, you’ll learn practical tools for career success and personal growth.

Program Topics

  • Revising the “Belief” System: confidence building & growth mindset

  • Revamping Your Resume: resumes & online applications

  • Rewriting Your Story: interview skills & storytelling

  • Retention: workplace supports & personal growth

Upcoming Sessions

Tuesdays & Thursdays, 12:00 – 4:00 pm

  • Summer Session: September 16 – September 25, 2025

  • Fall Session: December 9 – December 18, 2025

  • Winter Session: March 10 – March 29, 2026

  • Spring Session: June 16 - June 25, 2026

Important Note: Seating is limited, and a selection process ensures participants are best positioned to benefit from the program.

Application for the Summer Session is open August 13, 2025, to September 9, 2025

Biweekly Job Club. Walk-ins Welcome!

Reconnection Roundtable

Real Talk. Real Support. Real Next Steps.

Looking for a space to stay motivated in your job search? The Reconnection Roundtable is a group conversation that meets every other week to support individuals with justice involvement as they explore career paths and move forward. 

It’s a chance to connect with others who get it, talk through challenges, and encourage each other along the way. A staff member helps guide the conversation, but it’s really about building each other up and staying on track. 

No pressure, just support, real talk, and people who want to see you succeed. 

Additional Resources

For Employers

  • Second Chance Hiring Resources – Explore best practices, tools, and success stories from the Second Chance Business Coalition

  • Maryland Bonding Program – The Maryland Bonding Program provides free fidelity bonds to employers as a hiring incentive for individuals with past justice involvement or other barriers to employment. To learn more, contact Mark Smith, Maryland Reentry Navigator, at msmith2@maryland.gov