Northampton County launches Pathway to Your Future program to help former inmates re-enter workforce
A partnership connects incarcerated individuals with career exploration, job-readiness training, and college credit to support successful reentry and reduce recidivism.
A new partnership between Northampton County, Northampton Community College and the Lehigh Valley Justice Institute will help prepare incarcerated individuals for successful reentry into the workforce through education, career planning, and hands-on support.
According to a press release, the Pathway to Your Future Program connects participants with career exploration, job readiness training, and college credit—helping individuals build a foundation for meaningful employment after release.
“This program is about creating real second chances,” said Tara Zrinksi, Northampton County executive. “By equipping individuals with skills, direction, and support before they leave incarceration, we are strengthening both their futures and our regional workforce.”
Participants engage in an immersive curriculum focused on career pathways, employability skills, financial literacy, and reentry planning.
The program is designed to help them identify career interests, build resumes, practice interview skills, and develop actionable plans aligned with in-demand industries.
As part of the program, NCC provides Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) credits in key college success and career planning courses, allowing participants to begin their higher education journey before release and continue seamlessly after reentry.
Participants will also receive individualized support including academic advising, financial aid counseling, supportive groups, and connections to workforce and career services.
The program also directly addresses barriers faced by individuals with a criminal record, helping participants understand employment limitations, navigate disclosure, and identify viable career opportunities in today’s job market.
By aligning education with workforce needs, organizers said the initiative aims to reduce recidivism and strengthen the local economy.
“Everyone deserves the opportunity to move forward,” said President of Northampton Community College Dr. David Ruth. “This partnership ensures that individuals who have made mistakes still have access to education, support, and a future filled with possibility.”