ACTES: Achieving Change Through Transitional Employment Services
ACTES is part of Allegheny County's Community Violence Reduction Initiative, a public health approach to community safety. Auberle is proud to bring the same holistic, wraparound model that defines all of our programs to this critical work, because we believe that meaningful employment and sustained support can transform lives, families, and communities.
ACTES is an evidence-based violence reduction program operated by Auberle's Employment Institute. Based on the nationally recognized READI Chicago model rigorously evaluated by the University of Chicago Crime Lab, ACTES combines cognitive behavioral interventions, paid transitional employment, and wraparound support services to interrupt the cycle of violence in our communities.
About the Employment InstituteThrough relentless outreach and partnership with community-based violence intervention teams, ACTES identifies and engages adult men at the highest risk of being involved in gun violence. Over the course of 12 months, participants move through a structured pathway designed to create lasting change:
Engagement and Barrier Removal: Each participant works with a dedicated job coach from day one. Together, they identify barriers to stability, including housing, food insecurity, and transportation, and connect to the resources needed to move forward.
Cognitive Behavioral Interventions: Participants attend group sessions focused on building the skills to navigate daily life and the workforce, including conflict resolution, decision-making, and emotional regulation. Participants are compensated for their time in these sessions.
Personal Development: Alongside CBI, participants build essential life skills through personal development sessions designed to support long-term independence and well-being.
Transitional Employment: Once participants complete their CBI hours, they apply what they have learned in real-world, supported work environments. Our team provides transportation to and from job sites and remains closely connected to support each individual's growth.
Career Pathways: The final phase pairs participants with career-level positions aligned with their interests and goals. Those who want to pursue education or trade training are supported and compensated while they do so.
Participants are identified and referred through Allegheny County's Community Violence Reduction Initiative. ACTES does not accept direct referrals.