Wright County Hosts State's First In2WORK Program Graduation

BUFFALO, MN —The Wright County Sheriff's Office announced that on Tuesday it hosted the state's first-ever graduation ceremony for the In2WORK program, as three graduates earned their Certificate of Certification.

Created by foodservice and hospitality giant Aramark, the program helps people impacted by the justice system learn new work skills and earn certifications for post-incarceration employment paths. Aramark partnered with Wright County Jail Programs on the local effort.

"The IN2WORK program is an opportunity to help build marketable job skills through foodservice and retail training and experience, as well as self-esteem that can carry people into productive lives after their experience here," said Trace Ludewig, regional IN2WORK coordinator.

According to Aramark, the graduates will receive certification from The National Restaurant Association. Once IN2WORK graduates are released from jail, Aramark offers them a chance to earn scholarships for themselves and their dependents. The company also offers job coaching and access to employment opportunities with Aramark.

The program, according to Aramark, teaches students how to function in a workplace setting and work as a team, which leads to an increase in public safety and a decrease in future victimization.

Students learn accountability and responsibility through disciplined classroom and hands-on training, which helps set them up for re-entry into civilian life.

Aramark said it is looking forward to expanding the program into other counties, including within the seven-county metro area.

"We have continued to invest and drive innovation around IN2WORK because we have a genuine interest in helping former offenders transition back into society, and know the program works," said Tim Barttrum, president of Aramark Correctional Services.

"By offering a full suite of solutions, our goal is to fulfill the need to educate, train and encourage graduates to continue their development once they've been released. We consistently see results with those who implement the program including increased self-worth, esteem and morale – factors that have been proven to promote a safer environment and more positive outcomes for our graduates."