Trinity Health Ann Arbor and Center for Employment Opportunities Expand Program to Reduce Recidivism and Address Workforce Needs

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Von Lozon
Pager: (248) 725-2400
von.lozon@trinity-health.org

ANN ARBOR, Mich. (June 26, 2024) – Trinity Health Ann Arbor and the Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO), a national nonprofit that provides comprehensive employment services to individuals with conviction histories, announced the expansion of the “Fair Chance Program.” The initiative is designed to create and support health care career pathways for individuals with conviction histories. The program follows the success of a small pilot initiative launched in August 2023 inside the Ann Arbor hospital.

While today’s expansion announcement is limited to Trinity Health Ann Arbor, the health system has plans to implement the program at other Trinity Health Michigan hospitals in the near future.

"As a faith-based organization, we are committed to fostering a more inclusive and equitable workplace by providing opportunities for individuals with conviction histories to re-enter the workforce," said Shana Lewis, Director of National Workforce Development at Trinity Health. "The Fair Chance Program aligns with our values, enabling participants to build successful careers while making a positive impact in their communities."

The Fair Chance Program offers entry-level temporary positions in non-patient facing areas, such as Environmental Services, within the hospital setting. Participants who demonstrate work readiness and interest are considered for direct-hire roles. Upon successful completion of the program and hiring, individuals can explore diverse career paths within Trinity Health, as the health system remains committed to providing growth opportunities while adhering to state and federal guidelines. New colleagues hired through this program will receive ongoing support with career navigation and supportive services from a CEO Retention Specialist and a Trinity Health Community Health Worker and Workforce Development Partner.

In less than a year the pilot program at Trinity Health Ann Arbor has already yielded positive results, including:

• Improved hospital cleanliness, as measured by weekly audits.
• Positive feedback from nursing leaders and a reduction in cleanliness complaints.
• Three program participants offered direct-hire positions by Environmental Services leadership.

By providing transitional employment, supportive services, and direct-hire opportunities, the Fair Chance Program addresses the high unemployment rates faced by individuals with conviction histories. The initiative aims to make a sustainable impact on Michigan communities by expanding employment opportunities, reducing recidivism, and providing a talent channel to address health care staffing needs.

"We are thrilled to partner with Trinity Health Michigan on this important initiative," said Christopher Watler, Chief External Affairs Officer at CEO. "This partnership demonstrates Trinity Health's commitment to creating opportunities for individuals with conviction histories and sets an example for other health care providers to follow."

About Trinity Health Michigan

Trinity Health Michigan is a leading health care provider and one of the state’s largest employers. With more than 24,000 full-time employees serving 29 counties, Trinity Health Michigan operates nine hospitals located in Ann Arbor, Chelsea, Grand Haven, Grand Rapids, Howell, Livonia, Muskegon, Pontiac and Shelby, and two medical groups. The health system has 2,314 beds and 5,446 physicians and advanced practice providers. With operating revenues of $4.16 billion, Trinity Health Michigan returns $184 million back to their local communities each year. Together with numerous ambulatory care locations, home health and hospice agencies and 23 senior living communities owned and/or operated by Trinity Health, Trinity Health Michigan provides the full continuum of care for Michigan residents. Trinity Health Michigan is a member of Trinity Health, one of the largest Catholic health care systems in the country serving more than 30 million people across 22 states. www.trinityhealthmichigan.org