People enrolled in Eastern Maine Development Corporation’s workforce development programs, including Progressive Employment and Jail Diversion Through Work and Wellness, felt supported after a roundtable conversation with Maine Corrections Commissioner Randy Liberty and Maine Labor Commissioner Laura Fortman.
The event, moderated by EMDC President & CEO Lee Umphrey, highlighted the growing connection between workforce development and recovery support systems. “Increasingly, we are connecting training and development programs into recovery support systems. To be truly successful in helping people get jobs, we need key local partners like treatment courts, recovery organizations, education and training programs and employers to blend recovery and workforce development efforts,” said Umphrey.
Program participants, including graduates of Penobscot County Drug Treatment Court, said they felt inspired hearing from others in similar situations overcoming addiction, the stigma related to past justice involvement and ongoing barriers to employment.
One participant, Julian Cuminale, provided a written statement to the commissioners and shared with the group, “I’m glad to have the chance to represent EMDC as both a program participant and a staff member, and to talk about the challenges and my path to success. Being part of this conversation gives me more confidence.”
Fortman thanked participants and staff for their “honesty and willingness to share their stories. Our commitment is to listen and to continue to add new ways to make all of you more successful.”
Liberty, author of “Liberty’s Prison”, added, “Throughout my long career in law enforcement, I always believe in redemption. As the son of an inmate, I understand we all make mistakes, but regardless of how you start, you can be successful. In my positions, I have always been able to make a difference and know that treating people with understanding and respect will support a smooth transition back into their community so that everyone wins.”
The commissioners also cited Gov. Janet Mills’ first two executive orders, expanding MaineCare and establishing a Prevention and Recovery Cabinet to help Maine people access healthcare, as essential steps in supporting individuals in becoming successful workers.
Partners Elizabeth Simoni of the Maine Pre-Trial Association and Angela Walker of the Bangor Area Recovery Network contributed to the conversation, emphasizing partnership, integration of services and the importance of creating a supportive community environment so individuals are not penalized again.
Umphrey closed the meeting by saying to staff and participants, “We are inspired by your resolve, which is supported by these programs. We have two commissioners here today who work together to create opportunities that ensure your efforts will be rewarded with success.In every way,Commissioners Liberty and Fortman lead by example.”
