Molina Healthcare of Nebraska Donates $30,000 to Support Workforce Development for Former Inmates Re-entering the Community
Media Contact: Ben Jackey, Ben.Jackey@molinahealthcare.com, (502) 377-9484
LINCOLN, Neb., Oct. 30, 2024 – Molina Healthcare of Nebraska (“Molina”) presented a $30,000 check to Ybor – A Second Chance Kitchen (“Ybor”), a non-profit organization providing workforce training to those formerly incarcerated. The funding will support Ybor’s part-time post-release culinary apprenticeships, coaching and job search services. Research shows that having a job has been shown to reduce recidivism, and individuals are less likely to commit crimes when they have stable, full-time employment.
Recidivism remains a significant issue in Nebraska, with over 28% of individuals reoffending within three years of release. In response, Nebraska’s Reentry 2030 initiative aims to increase the rate of successful reintegration into the community from 72% to 82% by 2030, focusing on education, employment, collaboration, and supportive resources as key drivers of reentry success.
“Molina is proud to support Nebraska’s efforts to reduce recidivism through proven programs like Ybor,” said Frank Clepper, plan president for Molina Healthcare of Nebraska. “Ybor provides a pathway to lifelong success for individuals which is a benefit to the larger community.”
Ybor has offered food safety courses twice a month at the Community Corrections Center Lincoln, with 126 participants obtaining Lancaster County Food Handlers and Prep Cook Permits since May 2024. The non-profit is partnering with Southeast Community College to launch a 16-hour introduction to culinary skills course.
“We are committed to helping individuals rebuild their lives after incarceration, and Ybor’s Second Chance Kitchen plays a critical role in providing the training and support they need to thrive,” said Bill Radtke, director of Ybor – A Second Chance Kitchen. Collaborating with Molina Healthcare allows us to expand our impact, opening new doors of opportunity for those seeking a fresh start.”
Ybor hopes to establish a brick-and-mortar restaurant in 2025, offering full-time employment and apprenticeships. This expansion will allow the organization to increase the number of participants per year, provide a stable income base, and ensure program participants can work through their stability journey with secure income and ongoing support.
About Molina Healthcare of Nebraska
Molina Healthcare of Nebraska, Inc., provides government-funded, quality health care, serving members through the Medicaid program in Nebraska. Molina Healthcare, Inc., a Fortune 500 company, provides managed health care services under the Medicaid and Medicare programs, and through state insurance marketplaces. For more information about Molina Healthcare, please visit MolinaHealthcare.com.
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