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

Reconnection Roundtable

Real Talk. Real Support. Real Next Steps.

Looking for motivation in your job search? The Reconnection Roundtable meets every other week to support individuals with justice involvement as they explore career paths and move forward. It’s a space to connect with others who understand, talk through challenges, and encourage each other. Guided by staff but driven by the group, it’s all about support, real conversation, and staying on track.

Reconnection Roundtable meets every other Thursday from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. Registration is encouraged, but walk-ins are always welcome! Sessions include practical job search topics, guest speakers, and resources.

Register to Attend

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.

Fall Session: December 9 - December 18, 2025

Rewriting the Story is an in-person program with sessions held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12:00 – 4:00 p.m. at 200 Monroe Avenue, Frederick, MD. Participants who successfully complete the program are eligible for a stipend.*

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

Important Note: Seating is limited, and a selection process ensures participants are best positioned to benefit from the program. *Stipend availability depends on current funding.

The application period for the Fall session runs from October 15, 2025 through November 30, 2025.

Apply Here

Additional Resources

For Job Seekers

  • F.R.E.S.H. Virtual Workshops
    The Maryland Department of Labor’s Reentry Navigator, Mark Smith, offers the Facing Reentry with Excellence Supports Health (F.R.E.S.H.) program, a series of virtual workshops designed for justice-impacted individuals. Sessions focus on skill-building areas such as conflict resolution, interview preparation, resume development, and more.

    Upcoming Workshops:

    • October 7th at 1:00 pm - Conflict Resolution and 5 Musts During the Interview

    • October 14th at 1:00 pm - Understanding Your Why, Colors of the Interviewer, Resume Development

    • October 20, at 1:00 pm - Mock Interview and guest Speaker

    To attend, register at https://tinyurl.com/3twdesab or email msmith2@maryland.gov

  • Justice Jobs

    Justice Jobs is a community partner dedicated to helping jobseekers who face barriers to employment. Their mission is to support individuals in getting jobs, keeping jobs, and moving up to better jobs. Learn more at justicejobsmd.org.

  • Criminal Record Expungement

    Learn about the legal process of Expungement in Maryland during FREE Virtual Information Sessions hosted by the Frederick County Maryland Legal Aid office. This process is essential to removing barriers to second chances.

    Upcoming Session:

    • October 21 at 10:30 am

    Space is limited; please call 301-600-2757 to register to attend

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