The 2008 National Transitional Jobs Network Conference featured dynamic and informative workshops for all levels of expertise and interest. Workshop sessions were organized into the learning tracks outlined below. Click on the learning track name to be redirected to the specific learning track webpage, which includes descriptions of individual sessions and links to the materials presented during the workshop.

Transitional Jobs 101

Description: This learning track introduced newcomers to the field of Transitional Jobs. Sessions focused on the strategy’s design elements and successful program models. Participants learned the basics of funding, budgeting, and staffing. There was also opportunities to network with seasoned program providers and visit an established program. As a result of these sessions, participants gained a firm understanding of the fundamentals necessary to start an effective Transitional Jobs program.

Building Blocks for Success – Equipping
Transitional Jobs Programs with New Skills, Tools, & Resources 

Description: This learning track was designed for individuals that are currently operating or working within Transitional Jobs programs. Sessions provided new skills, tools, resources, and opportunities to network with other providers and administrators nationwide. Sessions included time for open dialogue, resource sharing, and skill development to help build staff capacity, strengthen program operations, and ensure future success.

Pathways to Success:
Using Transitional Jobs for Youth Transition to Work

Description: This learning track showcased innovative program models that serve youth, especially court-involved, foster, and homeless youth. Sessions highlighted strategies for impacting youth, sustaining programs, and advocating for stronger coordination of youth systems to promote youth workforce development. Participants had opportunities to share their experiences through open dialogue and visit an established program.

Reentry: Transitional Jobs for People with Criminal Records

Description: This learning track highlighted the expansion and growth in Transitional Jobs programs for people with criminal records. Sessions offered new insights based upon current research and program innovations. Conference participants heard from successful programs and learned how the Departments of Correction in Illinois and Michigan use the Transitional Jobs strategy to address the employment issues of the reentry populations in their states.

Advancing Transitional Jobs: What it Takes to Make an Impact

Description: This learning track provided the latest policy information and offered new perspectives on ways to expand the Transitional Jobs strategy on the federal, state, and local levels. Conference participants learned innovative techniques for crafting effective messages about Transitional Jobs to use among various stakeholder groups and for capitalizing on media coverage in order to build political support.

Special Topics in Transitional Jobs

Description: This learning track highlighted budding opportunities in the field to serve new populations and align the Transitional Jobs Strategy with other workforce development and income support systems.

Transitional Jobs & Social Enterprise Development

Description: The REDF (formerly the Roberts Enterprise Development Fund) helped organizations learn how to develop social enterprises within Transitional Jobs programs through a series of interactive sessions led by experts in the field.

Click here to download the complete conference booklet.