Jobs & Hope WV: A High-Return Investment in West Virginia’s Future

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Jobs & Hope WV is proving to be one of the state’s most effective workforce reintegration programs, delivering a substantial return on investment for West Virginia. With an annual investment of $6.1 million, the program generates $26.64 million in direct economic impact, yielding a 337% ROI. This equates to approximately $4.37 in benefits for every $1 invested. When considering social impact, the total ROI increases to an estimated $13.10 per dollar spent, reinforcing the program’s role in driving economic growth and community well-being.

Economic impact

Employment and tax revenue

8,722 program participants have secured jobs due to Jobs & Hope WV.
Total combined annual salaries amount to $78.9 million.
Estimated tax revenue at a 10% rate is $7.89 million.

Public assistance reduction

1,645 individuals have transitioned off Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
The average monthly savings per individual is $322.
Total savings amount to $6.35 million annually.

Driver’s license reinstatements

2,529 participants had their driver’s licenses reinstated.
Estimated annual economic benefit per individual is $2,500.
Total benefit reaches $6.32 million.

Expungement assistance

34 individuals have completed expungements.
Estimated lifetime earning boost per individual is $5,000.
Total benefit is $170,000.

Recidivism reduction

1,223 justice-involved individuals are currently active or graduated in/from the program.
The baseline recidivism rate of 40% has been reduced to 20%.
An estimated 244 individuals have avoided reincarceration.
With an annual incarceration cost per individual of $30,000, the total savings is $7.32 million.

Social return on investment

Beyond financial gains, Jobs & Hope WV contributes significantly to social stability, public safety, and individual empowerment.

Improved quality of life

Strengthened family stability through employment.
Reduced stigma and increased opportunities for justice-involved individuals.

Public safety enhancement

Lower crime rates due to reduced recidivism.
Safer communities with engaged, productive citizens.

Health and well-being

Reduced reliance on emergency services and substance use treatment.
Increased access to health care through employment benefits.

Education and skills development

570 graduates have earned industry-recognized credentials.
Enhanced long-term employability and career advancement.

Using a conservative multiplier of $2 in social value for every $1 in financial return, Jobs & Hope WV contributes an additional $53.28 million in social impact, bringing the total return to $79.92 million.

Broader economic impact

The program’s economic benefits extend beyond direct participants, boosting the local economy through increased consumer spending and job market expansion.

Each dollar earned generates approximately $1.50 in local economic activity.
Estimated economic activity from wages is $118.35 million.

Key outcomes

570 graduates earning workforce credentials.
8,722 employed participants.
2,529 driver’s licenses reinstated.
1,645 individuals no longer receiving SNAP benefits.
34 expungements completed.
$78.9 million in total wages.
$26.64 million in direct financial returns.
$79.92 million in combined economic and social benefits.

A program that pays for itself

Jobs & Hope WV exemplifies fiscal responsibility and social impact. By supporting employment, reducing reliance on public benefits, and decreasing recidivism, the program not only changes lives but also strengthens West Virginia’s economy. With a 337% financial ROI and a 1,210% combined ROI, Jobs & Hope WV is an investment that pays for itself multiple times over.

Article Overview

Jobs & Hope WV: A Transformative Investment

Investment: $6.1 million
Total Return: $26.64 million (financial) | $79.92 million (total value)
ROI: 337% (financial) | 1,210% (total value)

Breakdown:

$7.89 million in tax revenue
$4.94 million in SNAP savings
$6.32 million in license reinstatement benefits
$170,000 in expungement benefits
$7.32 million in recidivism savings

Outcomes:

8,722 employed
$78.9 million in wages
1,645 off SNAP
2,529 licenses reinstated
244 recidivism cases prevented

Jobs & Hope WV is not just an initiative—it is a proven investment in West Virginia’s economic and social future.

CONTACT THE COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE

Matthew Holstein
Strategic Relations Agent
Matthew.Holstein@k12.wv.us

Jobs & Hope WV Program Info ROI Workforce Reintegration