The Workforce Development Board of Herkimer, Madison and Oneida County is kicking off its Beginnings project.

The Beginnings project will provide critical employment and support services for previously incarcerated young adults as they make the transition back into their communities.

It will target young adults between the ages of 18 and 24 who are incarcerated at the Oneida County Jail or under the supervision of the County Department of Probation.

The project is funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Labor.  The Utica area was one of only about 40 in the nation selected for the program.

"We are very grateful for the Department of Labor's support in our efforts to ensure that all parts of our community have the opportunity to overcome adversity and create a better life," said Workforce Development Board Executive Director Alice Savino.  "During this grant, we will be helping 300 young adults with job training services, counseling to help them deal with changing their attitudes, and educational support so they can turn their lives around."

The project will include partnerships with the Oneida County Sheriff's Office, Oneida County Department of Probation, Kids Oneida, Mohawk Valley Community College, Legal Aid of Mid York and BOCES.

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