SIDNEY — There’s a new partnership in Shelby County. And this one will provide job training for inmates at the Shelby County Jail.

Goodwill Easter Seals Miami Valley (GESMV) and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office announced the new partnership this week. The program will help people who are exiting the criminal justice system gain employment. Individuals who are part of the Shelby County Jail’s work-release program may participate.

Once a judge has approved the individuals for the program, they are referred to Shelby County Counseling Center, which is under the management of GESMV, where they receive support for their drug or alcohol addictions. When appropriate, they are then referred to GESMV so the vocational rehabilitation coordinators can assist them in overcoming employment barriers and help them obtain a job.

Since the collaboration began several weeks ago, five individuals have received services and one person has obtained employment.

“This initiative demonstrates the power of collaboration,” said Lance Detrick, president and CEO of GESMV. “We’re pleased to bring expertise in helping people get jobs to enhance the work-release program Shelby County offers.”

Under the leadership of Sheriff John Lenhart, the Shelby County Jail takes a progressive stance in helping people get the help they need to successfully reintegrate into society.

“These collaborative efforts between GWESMV and the Shelby County Jail will give prisoners the opportunity to find a job and assist them in dealing with their addiction after their release from jail,” said Lenhart. “We are happy to be a part of this pilot project and look forward to continued success”.

GESMV will also provide vocational information and preparation sessions within the Shelby County Jail. Outreach staff will provide five 2-week sessions to soon-to-be-released inmates to help them become prepared for employment once they have been released. Topics include resume development, interviewing techniques and appropriate work behaviors.