For the last 6 years I have worked with many individuals exiting the prison system, and have come to realize that there are 2 critical components that must be available to prepare the individual to begin the long journey to successful reentry:
- The first is the ability to quickly access resources that can provide assistance in employer referral, obtaining appropriate I.D., and applying for daily living resources that can sustain the individual during those initial critical week and months after release. Without a means of communication, adequate transportation, appropriate clothing, a clear and concise community resource directory, and mentoring support, the road to successful reentry will be strewn with one barrier after another.
- The second is immediate intervention and support from a transition program that is designed to provide the access described in #1.
While the prison system may provide treatment programming for a select group of individuals during their incarceration period, the majority of inmates are not sufficiently prepared to cope with anxiety of instant freedom, nor oriented sufficiently on how to navigate successfully once back in the community. Additionally, for individuals who have been incarcerated for any length of time, the world and community can almost seem unrecognizable, confusing and inaccessible. Village Resources is prepared to quickly introduce these individuals to community resources that can help with their initial community reintegration efforts. With mentors working closely with each individual at the moment of release we can facilitate quick access to those resources that can address daily living needs. and assist with the provision of transportation and communication tools, work ready clothing and other daily resources,
Just like for Branden and Kirk who are pictured below with mentor Dave. Their barriers to successful transition was their lack of seasonal clothing, work boots, and temporary means of transportation. Village Resources supplied these necessary item just in time for both men to begin work two days after this picture was taken. These simple items can make such a difference for men and women trying to get back on track in those initial day after release from prison.
