Oregon Workforce Partnership

99%

of incarcerated Oregonians come home.

What happens next is up to all of us.

Oregon is the first state to operate workforce centers inside all state prisons. The Bridge Home tells that story — and shows what it means for you.

4%

recidivism among
program participants

1,826

Oregonians enrolled
as of June 2026

100%

employer retention at
federal follow-up

The program

A workforce solution, not only a criminal justice issue

The WorkSource Oregon Reentry Program embeds job-seeker services directly inside state prisons — employment planning, career coaching, and resume preparation — starting 20 to 180 days before release. After release, participants connect with community case managers within 72 hours, so no one falls through the gap between incarceration and community.

Every participant who lands sustainable work moves from costing the state approximately $79,000 per year in custody to contributing to the personal income tax base that funds 82% of Oregon’s general fund.

Who this serves

This program touches every Oregonian.

Oregon residents

Safer neighborhoods, a stronger tax base, and families that stay together. The program’s outcomes benefit every community in Oregon.

38% → 4%

recidivism rate, statewide vs. program

Employers

Access a motivated, pre-screened talent pool. WorkSource Oregon handles the connection at no cost to you — with ongoing support after hiring.

100%

employer retention at federal follow-up period

Policymakers

Cost-effective public policy that saves public safety dollars and returns taxpayers to Oregon’s economy. Program participants are ready to testify.

In their words

Returning citizens. Employers. Case managers.

These are real stories from the people who live this program every day.

Dallas Stepford

Employed at Lane Transit District

Lawmakers, are you going to pay $79,000 a year to house us in prison or would you rather invest in us, so that we can contribute back to society?

Within 72 hours of release, every participant has a face-to-face meeting with their community case manager. That handoff is the bridge — we don’t let anyone walk out into nothing.

WorkSource Oregon case manager

Community reentry services

Have your own story?

If you or someone you know has been through Oregon’s reentry system, your experience matters. Share it here.

Made in Oregon

Prison Blues: Work as the foundation

The Prison Blues clothing line — fabricated by adults in custody at Oregon correctional facilities — is the program’s most visible symbol. Real work, real wages, and the dignity that comes from making something that lasts. Visitors to the exhibit can see a life-sized installation that grounds the entire story in tangible, made-in-Oregon labor.