Most prisoners in the United States will eventually be released from incarceration, and in fact the U.S. Department of Justice estimates that more than 650,000 individuals are released from prison and millions more are released from local jails each year. Many of these individuals return to disenfranchised neighborhoods with few social supports, and these formerly incarcerated individuals face major hurdles for jobs, housing, and navigating a world around them that is changing rapidly. These and other challenges have historically led to high recidivism rates – the DOJ estimates more than half of incarcerated individuals return to jail or prison within three years.
To reduce this costly problem, many governmental corrections agencies have ramped up reentry efforts in the last decade. It’s one of the reasons GEO Reentry Services has been tapped for its expertise in delivering cognitive behavioral treatment programs and training in settings such as non-residential reentry programs, residential reentry centers, and in-custody programs that begin to prepare inmates for life in the community after release.
Mentorship is also an important tool being used to help ex-offenders find jobs, identify transitional housing opportunities, and in general, navigate some of the everyday challenges a person faces. The Prison Fellowship, for example, has fostered mentorship connections with ex-offenders for more than three decades. GEO Reentry also fosters mentorship opportunities and an alumni network program for individuals who have participated in its reentry programs. The goal is to provide support and accountability, which can make the difference between a successful return to society and failing conditions of release.
Many say mentorship is critical in the first few hours, days, and weeks after release from prison is when ex-prisoners are highly vulnerable and most prone to feel overwhelmed. Mentoring came come in many forms, including one-on-one or group mentoring, but in any form the goal is offering practical and emotional support.
GEO Care is working to connect mentors with mentees through its GEO Reentry Connect website. If you are seeking a mentor, or if you have the time, ability and skills to work with ex-offenders, consider being a mentor. Visit GEO Reentry Connect to learn more.