Aramark Correctional Services (ACS) celebrated a significant milestone in its IN2WORK (I2W) program—more than 500 graduates of the program in Florida in just two years. To mark the occasion, I2W students and the graduating class assembled 500 bags, filled with items for those in need, that were distributed to the Gadsden Department of Elderly Affairs and the Community Cares Food Pantry.
The graduating class had a ceremony on April 4, 2024, highlighting their accomplishments. To mark the occasion, ACS President and CEO Tim Barttrum congratulated students and encouraged them to continue on their path to post-incarceration success.
“The IN2WORK program is one of the most important things we offer as Aramark Correctional Services because we have opportunity to make a difference in the lives of incarcerated people,” said Barttrum. “I attend as many graduations as I can because it is important for our students to see that we are invested in their success not only by offering this program but also by serving as a second chance employer.”
The graduation was also attended by Secretary of the Florida Department of Corrections Ricky Dixon, Florida Senator Corey Simon, and Florida Talent Development Council Chair David Clark to congratulate the FL DOC on the successful programming, especially poignant in April, which is Second Chance month.
One of the I2W graduates had remarks for the room: “I would like to start off by saying how grateful I am to have been offered the opportunity to participate in the IN2WORK program…The staff here at the re-entry center have created an environment that breeds success by providing us with the I2W program that not only educates us while incarcerated, but also gives us a possibility to get hands-on experience in a food service environment and a possibility to intern with Aramark after completing the class.”
The IN2WORK program, implemented within correctional facilities across the nation where Aramark offers hospitality, equips incarcerated individuals with vocational skills, job readiness training, and a sense of purpose. By fostering education, work ethics, and community engagement, IN2WORK offers nationally recognized food service and retail certifications, aims to reduce recidivism, and empowers graduates to reintegrate successfully into society.
“It is a privilege to teach the I2W program,” said David Combs, Food Service Director and I2W Instructor. “The skills and teamwork that our students develop over the course of their studies has immediate effect on their correctional facility kitchens and then long-term potential for their lives after release.”
See news coverage of the graduation: SEE HOW: Inmates at Gadsden Re-Entry Center get a 2nd chance to be successful (wtxl.com)
Listen to our April 2024 podcast, featuring I2W graduates: Mark This! Episode 19: IN2Work Graduates Speak - Aramark
