In addition to these study methods, researchers conducted a literature review and solicited expert opinions. A preliminary study identified six broad categories of services being delivered to ex-offenders: institutional preparation (assessment, counseling, skills training, and prison industry programs provided prior to inmate's release); community readjustment; preplacement job preparation (e.g., basic education, job readiness workshops); job development; job placement; and postplacement support. Further, six distinct intervention strategies were found to characterize the programs, each based on different assumptions about employment barriers and needs. These approaches included job development and placement, residential services, supported work or work experience, skills training, job readiness, and financial assistance. Data analysis provided insight into the impact of the programs; however, the results were conflicting. Although thousands of clients who varied greatly in skills, education, and experience were placed in unsubsidized jobs, and although employers willing to hire ex-offenders were recruited, 40 to 60 percent of clients who applied for help did not receive it. Planned reentry services, drug and alcohol treatment, and postplacement services were either totally or greatly neglected. Services after job placement were minimal. The services interfaced well with other criminal justice and social service programs and had a positive impact on initial postrelease adjustment, but they were not designed to have a maximum impact on ex-offender unemployment, underemployment, and recidivism rates. The programs did not collect and analyze adequate data on their target populations, did not address postplacement behavior, and did not provide career counseling and written career action plans. Furthermore, the programs did not provide jobs at higher levels, use business and labor organizations effectively, or communicate effectively with similar programs. Tabulated study data and a bibliography of about 70 items are provided. Four appendixes contain data on programs and a telephone survey list.