Skills, Transitional Support, Respect, Integrity, Direction, Employment—The STRIDE program is a statewide workforce development program that provides transitional support both pre- and post-release in CT correctional facilities that they operate out of. STRIDE offers a holistic approach to employment and reunification with families in their perspective communities.
STRIDE is a unique, state-funded transitional support workforce development program operating within CT State Quinebaug Valley. This program serves a targeted group of incarcerated women, both pre- and post-release, from York Correctional Institution, Niantic, CT.
STRIDE is designed to provide participants with job readiness, job search and job retention skills and support that will promote access to higher-paying, personally relevant jobs.
Participants receive one-on-one counseling and group support as well as pre and post-release case management services. In addition, community transition plans address barriers and needs regarding housing, transportation, clothing and family reunification.
STRIDE is made possible through the collaborative efforts of Connecticut’s visionary state legislators and the CT Departments of Correction, Labor, and Social Services Welfare to Work Initiative.
Contact Us
Jennifer Liard, STRIDE Program Job Developer
Email: jennifer.liard@ctstate.edu
Phone: 860-932-4080
Criteria
To participate in the STRIDE program, participants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be currently incarcerated at participating STRIDE correctional facilities
- Must be committed to becoming employed and plan to remain in the state of Connecticut
- Must be able to make and keep scheduled appointments with STRIDE staff, both on a pre and post-release basis
Class Modules
Over the course of ten weeks, participants will learn the following:
- Attitude → Motivation → Change
- Identify Your Skills
- What Do Employers Want & Expect
- Job Search Strategies
- Applications, Resumes & Cover Letters
- Interview Skills
- Success on the Outside
CT Department of Labor
The Department is committed to protecting and promoting the interests of Connecticut workers. In order to accomplish this in an ever-changing environment, we assist workers and employers to become competitive in the global economy. We take a comprehensive approach to meeting the needs of workers and employers, and the other agencies that serve them. We ensure the supply of high-quality integrated services that serve the needs of our customers.
CT Department of Social Services
The Department of Social Services (DSS) administers and delivers a wide variety of services to children, families, adults, people with disabilities and elders, including health care coverage, child support, long-term care and supports, energy assistance, food and nutrition aid, and program grants.
CT Department of Corrections
Since 1968 the Connecticut Department of Correction has proudly served and protected the citizens of the State of Connecticut by daily ensuring the safety, security and order of our 18 correctional facilities in a manner that is widely viewed as a national model. The Department endeavors to provide the programming, education and treatment which willing inmates may utilize to improve themselves and the success of their eventual reintegration into society. Our staff of dedicated correctional professionals takes great PRIDE (Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Dignity, Excellence) in the daily performance of their duty to our state.
CT State Quinebaug Valley
CT State Quinebaug Valley provides innovative educational, social, and cultural opportunities in a welcoming and supportive environment. We improve the quality of life in Northeastern Connecticut by engaging learners in the classroom, developing leaders in the workplace, and creating partners in the community.
Support Enforcement Services
Support Enforcement Services (SES) is part of the Judicial Branch, Court Operations Division. We work closely with state and federal agencies to operate the Connecticut Child Support Enforcement Program. Our primary job is to help parents enforce and modify their child support orders. SES is committed to providing accurate information and appropriate services in a prompt, courteous and professional manner.