Transfr, a New York-based company, is working to bring virtual reality training to people who are incarcerated in Wisconsin to help them overcome barriers to employment upon release. The organization aims to create career pathways for individuals leaving incarceration, ultimately decreasing the likelihood of reincarceration.
Research shows that having a criminal record significantly reduces job opportunities, leading to a higher chance of returning to prison. By providing vocational programming and virtual reality training, organizations like My Way Out and Project RETURN are offering support to individuals inside correctional facilities, helping them with job searches and essential skills.
Despite the benefits of virtual reality training, the main obstacle is funding. The Wisconsin Department of Corrections does not have a budget for this technology, and funding from other sources has been limited. However, opportunities for improvement and success are evident, as Transfr offers a wide range of training programs to develop foundational skills in various fields.
Through partnerships with local organizations, Transfr aims to expand its virtual reality training to state prisons and bring in-demand vocational training to incarcerated individuals. By providing better-trained workers, these programs not only benefit the individuals directly involved but also contribute to the broader economy by addressing workforce shortages and increasing employment opportunities for those reentering society.
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