The Multnomah County Sheriff's Office (MCSO) is highlighting the success of its IN2WORK program, a joint effort with food service company Aramark intended to provide adults in custody (AIC) with skills that can aid in their reentry into society. According to a recent announcement by the MCSO, the program saw 29 AIC graduates in 2025, focusing not only on equipping these individuals with practical skills but also aiming to lower rates of recidivism.
Sheriff Nicole Morrisey O'Donnell was quoted as saying, "When we equip adults in custody with life skills, we are strengthening our communities, working to reduce recidivism, and creating pathways to stability, while supporting public safety." The IN2WORK program, founded to break the cycle of reincarceration, was fully implemented by MCSO in 2024. Now with the Aramark partnership, participants have an opportunity to obtain education in food safety, along with certifications that can be significant stepping stones towards employment after their release.
Program candidates undergo a comprehensive screening process, with eligibility hinging on a fully served sentence, adherence to work program standards, medical clearance for food service, and a commitment to complete the curriculum. Out of the class of 2025, 15 individuals achieved ServSafe certifications from the National Restaurant Association, marking a noteworthy achievement that stands to bolster their employment opportunities in the hospitality industry once they return to the wider community.
MCSO believes that the time spent in custody should not dictate an individual's prospects. Chief Deputy Stephen Reardon, overseeing the MCSO Corrections Division, stated, "IN2WORK supports our belief that people can leave our custody better prepared than when they entered." Steve Ciccotelli, the MCSO Programs Unit Manager, echoed a similar sentiment: "IN2WORK empowers adults in custody to build confidence, gain practical skills, and prepare for a future where success is possible," as stated by the MCSO.
Throughout 2025, the program operated four classes requiring 64 hours of preparation from both program instructors and deputies. This expansion of the program compares to 18 graduates in 2024, indicating a growing investment in rehabilitation efforts. Aramark's IN2WORK program has had a national impact as well, with over 14,000 incarcerated individuals receiving career-ready certifications to date. Media interested in learning more about the program and MCSO's role can reach out to the MCSO Public Information Officer.
