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BIC’s Future Fit program offers reentry opportunities

The Rock City Reentry Program’s Pathway Home 3 initiative is intended to help 100 participants benefit from reentry programming services and the Future Fit program while incarcerated at the Pulaski County Regional Detention Facility.

The Future Fit program equips participants with skills such as understanding blueprints, machine operations, safety, OSHA and interpersonal skills. The UA-PTC Business and Industry Center (BIC) coordinates the program.

It was developed by the Arkansas Economic Development Commission in partnership with local manufacturers. Certification is received before release which allows each participant to easily apply for local jobs with skills and certification that will increase employability.

Two interconnected success stories highlight the impact that Pathway Home 3 and Future Fit have had during 2024.

Jimmy Dempsey and Rylan Perryman (pictured right) first crossed paths at the Pulaski County Regional Detention Center, while involved in the innovative CSI Academy. Both participants decided to enroll in the Future Fit training with University of Arkansas Pulaski Technical College on December 5, 2023, after being incarcerated since July and October of 2023. Dempsey and Perryman were dedicated to setting positive examples, eliminating barriers, and holding each other accountable during their time of incarceration and were ultimately released early on January 26, 2024.

Their journey culminated in a joyous graduation from Future Fit on April 11, 2024. Encouraged by this milestone, Dempsey and Perryman embarked on a new chapter at Sage Foods, where they secured positions on their own after reaching out to LRPA, making $18.50 hourly plus benefits as general laborers. Through their enduring perseverance and commitment, these determined companions have a promising future, filled with many more opportunities.

For more information about the Future Fit program offered through the UA-PTC Business and Industry Center, visit uaptc.edu/futurefit.