November 8, 2021
The Fairfax County Sheriff’s Office hosted a celebration in the Adult Detention Center for three inmates who earned their ServSafe food service manager certificates and completed Aramark’s IN2WORK program. Inmates assigned to the ADC kitchen are potentially eligible for the program. Aramark is the food service provider in the ADC.
Sheriff Stacey Kincaid welcomed regional and national Aramark leaders and representatives of several Virginia Sheriffs’ Offices and jails who are hoping to adopt the program. In her congratulatory remarks to the graduates, Kincaid said, “Aside from what you have learned about safe food preparation and food service, you have also been coached in a variety of significant life skills. Make the most of your remaining time here by further developing these skills so you can enhance your employment opportunities and better manage your personal responsibilities post-incarceration.”
Through education and employment opportunities, IN2WORK has brought hope and solid reentry plans to inmates in the Fairfax County Adult Detention.
Nicole McVaugh is the national director of IN2WORK for Aramark and was attending her second IN2WORK graduation ceremony at the ADC. “If you want a job, we will hire you,” she said without hesitation. “Opportunities are there for you to take.”
“Much of what I have learned affects productivity, not just in food preparation but in overall business planning,” said Austin, one of the graduates. He owns a small business on the outside, which he says would benefit from a strong, detailed business plan. His goal is to expand his business to include setting up events catered by Aramark.
Bob Barr, Regional Vice President at Aramark, traveled to the ADC from Philadelphia. “I am beyond humbled and appreciative of the amazing partnership at Fairfax County, as well as the outpouring of support and attendance during today’s IN2WORK graduation. I look forward to continuing our collective mission in providing opportunities for individuals to thrive within the IN2WORK program and achieve success upon their release.”
According to Tim Barttrum, President of Aramark’s Correctional Services group, the program educates, trains and encourages graduates to continue their development once they have been released. “We consistently see results with those who implement the program, including increased self-esteem, a factor that has been proven to promote a safer environment and more positive outcomes for our graduates.”
For more information about the IN2WORK program, please see www.aramark.com/industries/business-government/correctional-facilities/rehabilitative-approach.