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From Jail to Job Skills: Franklin County Sheriff Partners With P&HCC on Re-Entry Program
FRANKLIN COUNTY, Va. — The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office is teaming up with Patrick & Henry Community College to give people behind bars a chance to leave jail with something more than a release date.
Sheriff Bill Overton and P&HCC President Dr. Greg Hodges recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding establishing the college as a training provider for justice-impacted individuals housed at the Franklin County Jail.
Through the partnership, P&HCC instructors will provide on-site education and workforce training to participants, with opportunities to earn industry-recognized certifications and credentials.
The program will also provide coaching and help connect participants with community resources and potential employers as they prepare to return to the community.
Officials say the goal is bigger than simply putting people through a classroom program. The partnership is designed to provide participants with practical skills, credentials and employment pathways in an effort to reduce recidivism and improve long-term economic stability.
Sheriff Overton said he believes the program can make a real difference for people preparing to leave the jail.
“With this partnership, I just believe we’re going to soar,” Overton said.
The sheriff said finding new ways to help people in the facility build a better future is an important part of reducing repeat offenses and strengthening the community.
P&HCC officials and the Sheriff’s Office said successful re-entry benefits more than the individual participant — it can also benefit their families, employers and the broader community.
The partnership represents another effort to turn time behind bars into an opportunity to develop skills that can be put to work after release.
The idea is simple: leave jail with a plan, a skill and a better shot at staying out.
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