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Reentry program graduates urge continued BEST funding and CDL training that supports employment
Summary
Multiple participants and staff from the BEST reentry program told the council the program provides training, job support and childcare assistance that helped graduates rejoin the workforce; several testified that CDL training funded through BEST helped them secure employment paths.
Individuals who completed the BEST reentry program and staff described how county‑supported services and training helped them obtain credentials, employment and housing stability.
“Not only have they given me the training for my CDL — they gave me back my self confidence and my self respect,” said Jennifer (last name transcribed as Barbarian), who testified she completed CDL training through the program that helped her restart her career. Several other program graduates described how BEST also helped pay for uniforms, work supplies and rent assistance.
Program participants described job placements, internships and follow‑up supports. Manuel Buera said he completed training after a long incarceration and obtained multiple job offers. Program staff said BEST-funded CDL training permits participants to attain commercially recognized credentials (Class A / Class B), with costs for training cited in testimony (class B roughly $3,800; class A roughly $5,500 per participant).
Why it matters: Witnesses cited human‑capital outcomes and upward mobility tied to training and transitional services and asked the council to sustain funding so future participants can access similar pathways into employment.
Councilmembers asked about program reach and CDL training logistics, including training costs and accommodation for Molokai and Lanai residents; program staff said capacity is limited by available trainers and vehicle access and that expanding to outer islands would require additional funding for travel or temporary housing.
No vote occurred at the hearing.
