The Employment and Opportunities Unit (EOU) connects job ready prisoners, parolees, and probationers with employment, training, and education opportunities across Michigan. We partner with employers, training providers, colleges, and community organizations to support returning citizens as they rebuild their lives. EOU also works closely with the Correctional Facilities Administration (CFA), Field Operations Administration (FOA), and regional Offender Success agencies to address employment barriers and ensure individuals receive the support they need to succeed.
Throughout the year, EOU hosts statewide hiring events to link participants with employers and community resources. Employers who hire justice involved individuals may benefit from the Fidelity Bonding, which provides free insurance coverage for the first six months of employment, helping reduce hiring risk while expanding job opportunities.
EOU also supports access to higher education. MDOC partners with several post-secondary institutions to offer credit bearing college courses inside facilities, helping individuals build skills, increase future earning potential, and reduce recidivism. To strengthen continuity after release, EOU now includes a dedicated Post Secondary Specialist who helps returning citizens navigate community based college and training programs.
In addition, EOU collaborates with MDOC Education and the Michigan Department of State (MDOS) to ensure individuals can obtain essential identification before returning to the community. Through the Returning Citizens Identification Card Program, trained MDOC staff collect documentation and photos so MDOS can process applications for State IDs and driver’s licenses.
EOU also supports MDOS Road to Restoration clinics inside prisons, where staff and volunteer attorneys provide one on one guidance to help individuals understand the steps to restore their driving privileges. Bringing these services directly into facilities removes barriers and supports employment readiness.
Together, these partnerships help ensure returning citizens leave prison with the identification, educational pathways, and employment support needed to achieve long term success.