FDC, Waste Pro Launch New Employment Program for Offenders

The Florida Department of Corrections (FDC) is partnering with Longwood, Fla.-based Waste Pro for a new employment program for offenders under state supervision.

“The department is incredibly proud of this new partnership, and we thank Waste Pro for their commitment to helping offenders,” said Julie Jones, secretary of FDC, in a statement. “This partnership will truly expand the opportunities of those under our supervision by providing hundreds of employment opportunities across the state. Employment is essential to our ultimate goal of continuing to increase the safety of Florida’s communities and reducing recidivism, which is at an all-time low.”

The department will initiate an application process and begin reviewing qualified offender candidates for vacant positions within Waste Pro. Recommended candidates will then begin the interview process with the company and undergo training once hired. Candidates can obtain employment through many different positions within the company, such as general helpers, mechanics and drivers.

“At Waste Pro, our company motto is ‘the Distinguishable Difference’ and a large part of that difference is the exceptional team of people who come to work every day and give their all, said John Jennings, CEO of Waste Pro, in a statement. “We are continually evolving with the needs of our residents and the communities we serve, playing an integral role in the continued growth and inclusion within those communities. This partnership with the Florida Department of Corrections is a unique opportunity to provide employment opportunities, easing the transition following their release and aiding in their continued growth. We are excited about the program and look forward to a long relationship.”

The department supervises nearly 167,000 offenders in the community. The department, and its community partners, have successfully aided in the job placement of more than 60,000 individuals since 2011. Research shows that job skills and career placement significantly reduce recidivism. The goal of this partnership is to further help offenders obtain meaningful job placement which will, in turn, reduce recidivism and improve safety across the state.