Walking the Last Mile to Reentry Program

Walking the Last Mile to Reentry Program

The Georgia Department of Labor's Walking the Last Mile to Reentry (WTLM) program helps people prepare for employment and supports their return to the community after incarceration.

Serving participants in DeKalb, Fulton, and Gwinnett counties through a partnership with the Georgia Department of Corrections, WTLM provides job training, employment services, and connections to resources that support a successful transition.

Who Can Participate?

Participants are enrolled while they are incarcerated. The program is not open for public application. Services are available only to individuals selected for WTLM.

To be eligible, individuals must:

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Have a federal, state, or local conviction on their record and currently be incarcerated
  • Reside in a state correctional facility (WTLM services are not available to people in federal or juvenile facilities)
  • Have a scheduled release date within 20 to 180 days of enrollment
  • Plan to live or work in DeKalb, Fulton, or Gwinnett counties after release

Services Before Release

  • Industry-recognized certifications
  • Job readiness and workplace skills training
  • Career and education counseling
  • Life skills and personal development training
  • Assistance connecting with employers and job opportunities
  • Education and training resources
  • One-on-one support and guidance
  • Connections to community resources
  • Reentry planning before release

Services After Release

  • Employment placement services
  • Ongoing career training and education opportunities
  • One-on-one support from a dedicated case manager for up to one year
  • Connections to community services, including housing, childcare, transportation, legal services, mental health services, and financial education
  • Follow-up support from employment specialists who work with participants and employers

Partner With WTLM

Employers play an important role in creating employment opportunities for individuals returning to the workforce. WTLM works with employers to understand hiring needs, connect them with qualified candidates, and provide support throughout the hiring process.

Benefits for Employers

WTLM employer partners can:

  • Connect with trained and motivated candidates ready to work
  • Fill open positions with qualified candidates
  • Receive workforce and recruiting support from Georgia Department of Labor staff
  • Lower hiring costs through programs such as the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)
  • Reduce hiring risks through the Federal Bonding Program

Contact Us

Interested in partnering with WTLM or learning more about the program? Contact us today!