Olive-Harvey College Partners with Cook County Department of Corrections in the creation of an on-site forklift certification program

This program allows individuals in custody to earn an industry-recognized forklift credential so they can find meaningful employment as a forklift operator upon release from CCDOC

CHICAGO-(October 6, 2025) Olive-Harvey College (OHC) is proud to announce a groundbreaking new partnership with the Cook County Department of Corrections (CCDOC) that is offering on-site forklift certification training to individuals in custody. This program, championed by Olive-Harvey College President Kimberly Hollingsworth and her team, is designed to provide an industry-recognized credential that remains valid for three years-equipping participants with tangible skills that support workforce reentry and economic mobility upon release.

"I applaud this partnership between Olive-Harvey College and Cook County Department of Corrections which will help our communities and individuals in custody to thrive," said Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. "By providing meaningful training like forklift certification, we are helping them gain the skills they need to secure stable employment and build better futures for themselves and their families once they return to our communities. Through the Mayor's Office of Re-Entry, we will continue the City's efforts to invest in and create programs that ensure everyone has the opportunity to heal and contribute to a safer city."

While release dates for participants vary widely-from six months to two years-this certification program lays the foundation for future employment opportunities. The program underscores Olive-Harvey College's commitment to access, especially for communities that are disproportionately impacted by the criminal legal system.

"This program is about more than forklift training," said President Hollingsworth. "It's about investing in people, dismantling systemic barriers, and providing real opportunities for individuals who have been historically left behind. It's our college's core mission in action."

"We continually offer dynamic programming to individuals in custody and the forklift program is another way to provide marketable job skills," said Dr. Jane Gubser CCDOC Executive Director. "Forklift training can help rekindle a sense of purpose and confidence as individuals re-enter society."

Through this partnership Olive-Harvey College and CCDOC are taking another powerful step toward interrupting cycles of recidivism by addressing one of its root causes: lack of access to economic opportunity. Providing incarcerated individuals with in-demand certifications prepares them for employment post-release, strengthens families, and uplifts communities throughout Chicago and beyond.

The initiative aligns with the College's broader efforts, including the launch of the Center for Criminal and Social Justice, which provides legal services such as expungement support, social advocacy, and educational programming-ranging from "Know Your Rights" seminars to courses in Africana Studies, criminal justice, sociology, art, music, and poetry.

"At City Colleges of Chicago, we believe education is a powerful force for transformation. This partnership between Olive-Harvey College and the Cook County Department of Corrections is an example of that belief," said Chancellor Juan Salgado, City Colleges of Chicago. "By bringing workforce training inside the walls of the correctional system, we're opening doors to economic opportunity, and helping individuals build a future rooted in hope and purpose."

This certification program is a vital part of Olive-Harvey College's social justice mission and its unwavering dedication to transforming lives through education. The key initiatives and the goals of the Criminal and Social Justice Center include:

• Mock Trial Program: Providing students with hands-on experience in legal processes
• Law Clinic Development: The clinic offers legal assistance and education to students and community; referrals are available now.
• OHC short film fest, an annual event: The film festival showcases films that highlight social justice issues and inspire change
• A Speakers Series inviting experts to share insights and provoke thoughtful

discussions on restorative justice-related topics

• Community Service/Volunteer Coordination: This program engages students and community members in meaningful service opportunities.
• Development of a justice forward music and Spoken Word event: This program will use the arts to raise awareness and inspire action around social justice themes

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Olive-Harvey College, one of the seven City Colleges of Chicago, is a premier hub for transportation, distribution, and logistics (TDL) training. With cutting-edge facilities and strong industry partnerships, OHC prepares students for in-demand careers in technical and skilled trades.

City Colleges of Chicago is the city's most accessible higher education engine of socioeconomic mobility, empowering all Chicagoans to take part in building a stronger Chicago. Learn more about City Colleges of Chicago by visiting https://www.ccc.edu or click here.

Media Contact: Veronica Resa, City Colleges of Chicago, (e) [email protected]

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