Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development

Friday, May 25, 2001 Governor Scott McCallum Secretary Jennifer Reinert

News Media Contact Christopher Marschman 608/261-6705 e-mail: news@dwd.state.wi.us fax: 608/266-1784

Contact: Lisa Hull, Governor’s Office Communications Director, (608) 266-1212

MADISON—Gov. Scott McCallum today announced that organizers of the Milwaukee Second Chance Job Fest have won the May Governor’s Workforce Innovation Award (WIN), which recognizes individuals and organizations that create innovative approaches and outside-of-the-box solutions to develop and sustain Wisconsin’s workforce.

The focus of the event was on job seekers with significant barriers to work including, ex-offenders, non-custodial parents, and the economically disadvantaged. More than 2,700 job seekers attended the event that offered a "Second Chance" and a fresh start. On-site workshops offered employers the opportunity to learn about incentives and supports available to those who hire special populations while job seekers attended sessions to improve their job seeking skills.

"Employment of one person who might otherwise be incarcerated saves taxpayers an estimated $25,000 a year and just 20 jobs would save taxpayers a half million dollars a year," Gov. McCallum said. "They help themselves, they help the taxpayer and, ultimately, they help the entire community," he said.

The successful event, held on March 28, at the Milwaukee Auditorium, was made possible by the efforts of dedicated staff from the Benedict Center, U. S. Probation and Parole Office, United Migrant Opportunities Service, Wisconsin Correctional Services, Wisconsin Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Department of Workforce Development and the Department of Corrections. This cooperative effort was initiated in response to the labor shortage and offers employers an opportunity to tap into an underutilized labor pool.

The second chance job fair committee recruited employers from all occupational sectors and service agencies representing many community services, who offered living wage jobs. Employers commented that the event was first class and the work to prepare the job seekers allowed employers to offer employment for individuals they traditionally overlooked.

The WIN award is presented each month to highlight innovative approaches and solutions to overcoming barriers to work, empowering individuals to move up the job ladder, and partnering with employers, educators and local government to do what works to build a stronger workforce.

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