Bringing VR Inside Prisons for Career Training

• WHO: Michael Helfrich, Mayor, York City; Chawna Griffith-Myers, Executive Director, York County Reentry Coalition; Silas Chamberlin, Chief Strategy Officer and Vice President, Economic & Community Development, YCEA; Hillary Lyle, Director of Strategic Initiatives; SCPa Works; Megan Judge, Program Director, Education and Workforce, U.S. Conference of Mayors; Broderick Johnson, Executive Vice President of Public Policy & Digital Equity, Comcast; Justin Cravener, Forensic Peer Specialist, Life Changing Pathways
• WHAT: Brief Remarks Followed by Q&A and a Demonstration of the Virtual Reality Technology Meant to Help Reduce Recidivism
• WHERE: York City Council Chambers, City Hall, 101 S George St
• WHEN: Tuesday, December 3rd, 2 pm

The City of York received a $75,000 grant from the U.S. Conference of Mayors and Comcast to help SCPa Works put Virtual Reality technology into prisons so those reentering society can train in occupations like plumbing or car repair and more. This is a cutting-edge approach to reentry.

"I frequently call York the 'City of second chances'," said Mayor Michael Helfrich. "The program developed by SCPa Works is rooted in this motto. Digital literacy and VR career exploration will do so much to put those impacted by the criminal justice system on a better footing for the future."

"York County remains a model for reentry across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania," said Chawna Griffith-Myers, Executive Director of the York County Reentry Coalition. "By introducing this valuable programming within York County Prison, we are cultivating a correctional and reentry model that prioritizes access to resources and opportunities as a strategy to reduce our recidivism rate. This digital equity initiative presents us with a unique chance to equip individuals reentering our communities with essential skills, enabling them to secure meaningful employment and overcome obstacles to successful reentry."

"Mayor Helfrich is investing in economic development that lifts people up instead of leaving them behind," said U.S. Conference of Mayors CEO and Executive Director Tom Cochran. "The Talent for Tomorrow: Digital Equity Challenge grant allows York to grow its Digital Equity for Justice-Impacted Residents program and build on their success. This strong reentry program enables returning citizens to develop essential digital skills, creating pathways to expanded career opportunities and reducing recidivism. By providing this digital access and skills training, the city empowers formerly incarcerated individuals to make meaningful contributions to their communities - building a stronger, more diverse, more equitable and inclusive workforce. The Conference is grateful to have a committed partner in Comcast, as we work to create economic opportunity and communities where all Americans can thrive."