First Class Graduates from Governor Sanders’ Recidivism Reduction Pilot Program

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. - Last Friday, the first class of Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders' pilot program to reduce recidivism in Arkansas' corrections system graduated from the University of Arkansas - Pulaski Technical College Future Fit Program.

"A major goal of incarceration is rehabilitation, and this pilot program is delivering on that promise," said Governor Sanders. "By addressing barriers like employment, housing, and substance abuse, we're preparing participants for reentry and reducing the likelihood of repeat offenses. This graduation marks an important step toward expanding what works and lowering Arkansas' recidivism rate."

"Governor Sanders' reentry pilot represents our shared commitment to transformation, second changes and bridging the gap between incarceration and helping offenders become successful members of community," said Arkansas Secretary of Corrections Lindsay Wallace. "By addressing the barriers that so often prove difficult to navigate for returning citizens, we significantly reduce their likelihood to reoffend. Today, we celebrate the successful graduation of these offenders and a new approach to reentry."

"This graduation represents more than a milestone, it reflects the power of education and workforce development to create second chances and lasting change," said Cody Waits, Executive Director of Arkansas Workforce Connections. "By earning industry-recognized credentials and building a clear pathway to career-sustaining wages, these individuals are returning to their communities with the tools to succeed and to support their families. At the same time, this investment strengthens Arkansas' workforce, supports employers with skilled talent, and delivers long-term benefits to our entire state."

Launched in August as part of a broader effort to expand opportunity and reduce repeat incarceration, the pilot program focused on equipping incarcerated individuals with the skills, support, and credentials needed to successfully reenter the workforce and their communities.

Eighteen of the program's 20 participants graduated, earning industry-recognized certifications designed to prepare them for competitive careers in advanced manufacturing. Graduates received three credentials: OSHA 10, the ACT National Career Readiness Certificate, and the Future Fit Production Operator/Assembler Certificate. Together, these certifications validate both technical expertise and essential workplace skills sought by employers in Arkansas' growing manufacturing sector.

Several state agencies partnered to support participants prior to release. The Department of Finance and Administration's (DFA) Office of Child Support Enforcement assisted individuals in resolving outstanding obligations, such as civil warrants related to child support arrears, helping prevent re-offense upon release. DFA's Driver Control also helped identify license suspensions and assisted eligible participants in obtaining valid driver's licenses.

The Department of Human Services is continuously running adult and child maltreatment registry checks to help ensure participants don't encounter barriers when securing housing or employment.

To support workforce placement, the Department of Corrections is currently working on connecting participants with manufacturing apprenticeships in the educational institutions and the private sector.

Following graduation, participants will have approximately one week remaining before their release. During this time, officials will re-verify parole conditions, housing arrangements, employment opportunities, benefits, and other individual needs to support a smooth transition back into the community.

Select participants will also receive continued support through Restore Hope, a partner of the Governor's 10:33 Initiative. Restore Hope's HopeHub platform provides collaborative case management by connecting individuals with a community advocate and mobilizing faith and community-based partners to address immediate needs such as housing, healthcare, and transportation, while also working toward long-term stability.

As participants gain independence, they are connected to Arkansas LAUNCH, where they can explore job opportunities, access training, and receive career guidance.

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