Announcements

A second class of clients at the McDonnell Center Community Based Correctional Facility (CBCF) completed coursework and testing to earn a forklift operation certification in July 2025. The Ridge Project Forklift Program is a two-hour certification course that includes a lecture, a written test, and a hands-on driving assessment.

The Forklift Certification Program aims to reduce recidivism by training individuals in critical industry sectors facing increased demand and workforce gaps. Although CBCF clients are restricted to the facility, judges or Adult Parole Authority officers grant special permission for participants to take the practical portion of the training in the parking lot. Gaining certification in safe forklift operation provides valuable skills that can support future employment opportunities.

The 10 graduating clients had the opportunity for this training because they were sentenced to the McDonnell Center by the following Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Judges: Richard Bell, Cassandra Collier-Williams, Emily Hagan, Joy Kennedy, Jennifer O'Donnell (two graduates), Andrew Santoli, and Joan Synenberg.