LEBANON, Ind. -- The Heritage Trail Correctional Facility held its first graduation ceremony for a group of men who have spent the last several months getting the skills they need to succeed after paying their debt to society.
The program, which is a partnership between Vincennes University and the Indiana Department of Corrections, is part of Governor Eric Holcomb’s Next Level Agenda for 2018.
Inmates who are part of the CNC Metal Working Skills program are trained how to operate mills and lathes with the goal of aligning them with gainful employment in the industry once they’re released.
CNC operation helps provide released offenders with higher pay rates and stable employment when they’re released back into society.
Jack Jones says he’s grateful he was chosen to be a part of the program while he was serving his time.
“I don’t think you can put the value into words,” said Jones. “When somebody returns to the street the first thing you need is support.”
Jones says graduating from the program and having help finding a job is invaluable for someone who is trying to fit back into a world where nothing comes for free.
“Financially you have your kids coming to you – they need things, you’ve got your probation fees, parole fees and unfortunately you have this felony over your head so it’s tough to immediately jump back into everyday society,” said Jones.
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