County Celebrates Second Chance Awareness Month Through Launch of New Training Programs for Returning Citizens
LARGO, MD – The Office of Prince George’s Acting County Executive Tara H. Jackson celebrated Second Chance Awareness Month and officially launched the Welcome Home Project, an innovative workforce development initiative designed to support returning citizens. This new initiative is made possible through a collaboration between Prince George’s Community College (PGCC), Employ Prince George’s, and Training Grounds, Inc.
“Our commitment to supporting returning citizens goes hand in hand with building a stronger, more resilient community,” said Acting County Executive Jackson. “By partnering with stakeholders like Prince George‘s Community College and Employ Prince George‘s, we’re creating real opportunities for returning citizens to develop skills, secure jobs, and build a foundation for long-term success. The Welcome Home Program is more than just a second chance, it’s an opportunity to build a stable future and strengthen the economic fabric of Prince George’s County.”
Welcome Home Project
The Welcome Home Project is a tuition-free certification experience at PGCC that supports returning citizens who have been incarcerated for five or more years and released within the last 18 months. The project provides participants with stipends, supportive services, training, and resources needed to secure stable, long-term employment, and improve their overall quality of life. By providing access to professional certifications, stipends, and tailored support, the Welcome Home Project creates opportunities that transform lives, uplift families, and strengthen the entire community.
“At Prince George’s Community College, we believe in second chances and the power of education to transform lives,” said Dr. Falecia D. Williams, President, Prince George’s Community College. “The Welcome Home Project embodies our commitment to providing returning citizens with the opportunity to rebuild their futures through education, certification, and employment. We are grateful to collaborate with Employ Prince George’s, Inc. and Training Grounds, Inc. to create meaningful pathways to success. By investing in our returning citizens, we are investing in a stronger, more inclusive Prince George’s County—one where every individual has the tools and support to reclaim their future.”
Key Project Features:
- Receive tuition-free certification training
- Earn up to $1,000 in stipend support throughout the training
- Access to additional supportive services
- Career pathways in high-demand industries such as construction, information technology, and healthcare
- Soft skills and life skills development to ensure personal growth and success
- Case management and individualized career planning
“The Welcome Home Program has given me an incredible opportunity to rebuild my life by providing the skills and support I need to achieve financial stability,” said Angelo Torres, Welcome Home Project Participant. “It’s more than just training—it’s a pathway to employment and personal growth. Through this program, I’m gaining the tools to secure long-term opportunities, and I’m confident that once I complete it, I’ll be able to purchase my first home and continue advancing as a skilled electrician. This program is helping me build a prosperous, more secure future for myself and my family.”
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A mere glance at the diversity of Prince George‘s County confirms our role as a cultural and economic leader of tomorrow. Located in the heart of the Baltimore/Washington corridor, the County borders Washington D.C. and is just 37 miles south of the City of Baltimore. Encompassing almost 500 square miles, Prince George‘s County has an urban atmosphere that also provides a scenic and peaceful place to live, work, and play.
About Prince George’s Prince George’s Community College
Named a National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance designated by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security (2022-2027), Prince George’s Prince George’s Community College (PGCC) provides high-quality education and training for the progressive and career-oriented residents of Prince George’s County. From new high school graduates and career seekers to more seasoned professionals and senior citizens looking to enhance their skill sets, PGCC comprises students who represent a wide range of ages, backgrounds, and goals. See PGCC’s Nondiscrimination Statement. Serving nearly 25,000 individuals annually, the College is the first choice for higher education for residents of Prince George’s County. Collaborative partnerships, responsive degree, and training programs, and a commitment to student success enable PGCC to address diverse education and workforce development demands.
For more information, visit the College’s website at www.pgcc.edu. Prince George’s Prince George’s Community College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, 3624 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104; (267-284-5000); www.msche.org. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education is an institutional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education and the Council on Higher Education.
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