Spokane Workforce Council Hosts Washington State Senators for Crucial Discussions on Economic Security for All!
Spokane Workforce Council had the honor of hosting Washington State Senators Claire Wilson (Chair) and Noel Frame from the Human Services Committee at our WorkSource Spokane campus in late October. The purpose of their visit was to learn more about how our workforce system is partnering to use Economic Security for All (EcSA), which is a comprehensive initiative designed to ensure that all Washingtonians have access to the resources they need to achieve economic independence.
At WorkSource Spokane, we are dedicated to providing the services and support needed to help individuals overcome barriers to employment and stability. In total, in the last program year we served 176 EcSA participants, with 70 receiving training services. Of those, 71 reached a self-sufficiency wage, demonstrating the long-term impact of our programs in helping individuals achieve financial independence and stability.
WorkSource Spokane: A Place of Opportunity and Support
During the visit, we discussed the profound impact that supporting justice-impacted individuals can have on both the individuals themselves and the communities to which they return. Many of these individuals face significant challenges when re-entering society after serving time in prison—challenges such as stigma, limited employment opportunities, and barriers to housing and education. Without the right support, many fall into a cycle of poverty, which not only affects their own lives but also has lasting consequences for their families and communities.
Through our partnership with Pioneer Human Services, we have seen firsthand the incredible progress that can be made when justice-impacted individuals are given the tools to succeed. This collaboration is a cornerstone of our efforts to help people build better futures.
One of the most compelling pieces of evidence we’ve seen is in recidivism data. When tracking participants in Pioneer’s programs during their first year post-incarceration, we observed a recidivism rate of just 1%. This statistic is particularly significant because it is not based on re-arrest rates for the same crime. Instead, it shows that the likelihood of these individuals committing any new crime—of any nature—is reduced to only 1%. This powerful data debunks the widespread misconception that people with criminal records are destined to re-offend and re-enter the justice system. It demonstrates that, with the right support, individuals can break free from cycles of crime and poverty and, become valuable contributors to society.
In addition to our success in reducing recidivism, the outcomes of our justice-impacted participants who re-enter the workforce have been equally impressive. 86% of our justice-impacted participants who received training services obtained employment, with a median hourly wage of $30—significantly higher than the wages of our non-justice-impacted participants.
These outcomes are a testament to the effectiveness of our approach and the transformative power of providing the right support and resources to those who need it most.
Why Does This Matter to Spokane County?
Workforce development is not just an economic issue—it’s a community issue. For Spokane County, investing in programs that support justice-impacted individuals is about much more than offering second chances. It’s about creating a stronger, more resilient community.
When individuals who have been incarcerated are able to successfully reintegrate into the workforce, they not only improve their own lives but also positively impact our local economy. These individuals become contributing members of society, filling vital roles in businesses, paying taxes, and supporting their families. In turn, this reduces the financial strain on public services and social safety nets, freeing up resources for other important community needs. Our programs demonstrate that with targeted interventions—like access to job training, mental health services, and housing support—justice-impacted individuals can reintegrate successfully, contributing to a safer, more vibrant Spokane.
Looking Ahead: Building a Stronger, More Inclusive Spokane
Our work at WorkSource Spokane is much more than just helping individuals find employment. It’s about creating opportunities for people to rebuild their lives and, in turn, strengthen the fabric of our community. We’re committed to providing the resources needed to help justice-impacted individuals break free from the cycle of incarceration and poverty, ensuring they have access to the tools they need to succeed long-term.
As our community continues to grow and evolve, we know that the work being done through partnerships like Pioneer Human Services is a critical piece of the puzzle. We are proud to be part of a collective effort to make Spokane County a place where every person, regardless of their past, has the chance to thrive. Together, we can create a community that reflects the full potential of everyone who calls Spokane home.
