Reentry Programs

PJI’s reentry programs prepare talented returning citizens for successful and rewarding careers. Through partnerships between D.C. government agencies and Georgetown University, the Pivot Program and the MORCA-Georgetown Paralegal Program offer certificates, professional training, leadership development, mentorship, and career support.

“This program has restored my confidence and helped me find my voice.”

LEUNEA MYERS, PARALEGAL PROGRAM GRADUATE

Georgetown Pivot Program

The Georgetown University Pivot Program is a business and entrepreneurship-oriented reentry program, delivered by Georgetown University in partnership with the D.C. Department of Employment Services. The program, which combines classroom training with subsidized internships at local businesses and non-profits, is designed to change the attitude of employers toward the hiring of individuals with prior criminal convictions, and to allow returning citizens to access opportunities that would be otherwise out of reach. We also hope that Pivot Program graduates will create jobs for themselves and for others through business enterprises of their own.

Pivot’s approach is based on the premise that a combination of higher education and employment – together with the social, emotional, and intellectual development that takes place in a university environment – will succeed in preparing formerly incarcerated people for positions as both entrepreneurial leaders or productive employees.

Admissions for the next cohort of the Pivot Program will take place in summer 2024.

Visit the Pivot Website

Info for Pivot Partners

MORCA-Georgetown Paralegal Program

Brianna Stutson and David Rider, in graduation caps and gowns, pose for a photo.

The MORCA-Georgetown Paralegal Program prepares returning citizens for successful careers in the field of law. The program is a partnership between Georgetown, the Mayor’s Office on Returning Citizen Affairs (MORCA) and the DC Department of Employment Services (DOES).

Participating Paralegal Fellows complete an intensive 24-week certificate program through the Georgetown University Law Center, and they earn an hourly stipend while completing classes full time. The curriculum includes legal research and writing, corporate law, torts, contracts, legal technology, ethics, digital literacy, job readiness, and more. After completing their academic coursework, Fellows explore opportunities for full-time legal support positions and receive employment support.

The program aims to address the significant barriers to employment in the legal profession that returning citizens face. The program provides its Fellows with both the formal training and professional certification to supplement their practical experience, creating an entry point to start or advance law careers.

Admissions for the Paralegal Program are now closed. The next admissions cycle will take place in early 2025.

Info for Paralegal Applicants

Info for Paralegal Partners

Meet the Alumni

Pivot Program

Paralegal Program

Reentry News

Dee Farmer

Blogs

Fighting for Equity in Prisons

Dee Farmer shares her thoughts about the challenges she faced while incarcerated and how the MORCA-Georgetown Paralegal Program has shaped her work since her release.

February 27, 2024

News

Paralegal Alum Jessica Trejo: Owning Her Story

Through the MORCA-Georgetown Paralegal Program, Jessica Trejo has gained confidence and pride in herself and her future.

November 20, 2023

News

Paralegal Program Celebrates 4th Graduation

Twelve returning citizens graduated with their certificates in Paralegal Studies

October 6, 2023