Nine Recovery Court participants completing a manufacturing certification program to expand their career opportunities while undergoing outpatient substance abuse treatment.
Recovery Court and Veterans Treatment Court Program Director Holly Roysden said the initiative was a collaborative effort with the Upper Cumberland Workforce Development Board. The program brings specialized training to participants who are not incarcerated.
“They would come in tired after work,” Roysden said. “So, very proud of all the nine individuals because they committed the time and the effort to obtain these manufacturing certifications.”
Roysden said the nine volunteers finished every required class and passed a final exam to earn the certification. Roysden said the participants completed these educational requirements in the afternoons and on weekends while simultaneously maintaining full-time employment and attending required counseling sessions.
Roysden said the program was previously only available to inmates within the jail system before Business Services Director Stacey Baxter coordinated with Judge McKenzie to offer the 26-session course to the Recovery Court.
“They’re trying to get their life back in order, and so we’re providing a lot of structure and also counseling on the outpatient level, mental health counseling and A&D counseling,” Roysden said. “So they have a lot of requirements like they go… they’re required to maintain employment, which is incorporating them back into society, to hold down a job, and, you know, the same job.”
Roysden said the program ensures participants obtain a high school diploma or GED because many enter the court system without advanced education. Roysden said the new manufacturing certifications provide a specific tool to help participants secure better careers with local companies in Putnam County.
“It’s just important to give them a hand up and then teach them how to live independent and take care of themselves and we get to see that success here,” Roysden said. “But this is just one of the tools, many tools that we provide for them to help better their future. And it helps their families too… those that have children, if they have a better job, it… it helps them become independent living so they can have their children back.”
Roysden said while having a felony record remains a challenge for many participants, the employment landscape has improved significantly over the last 26 years. Roysden said many modern employers are willing to support individuals who are actively participating in recovery programs to improve themselves.
“I just always had a passion to help people and so when I chose a profession, I just chose one that would be where I could make a living for myself and help other people,” Roysden said. “So I’m just thankful that I’m able to do this.”
Roysden said the program intends to continue working with community partners to provide more resources for client success.
