In 2008 one in every 99.1 adults was behind bars in America. With more than 1.5 million in state or federal prisons and more than 700,000 in local jails, the United States incarcerates more people than any other country in the world. In addition, (March 2009) reports that there are over 4.2 million people on probation and and over 800,000 on parole. In total there are over 7.3 million adults under some form of correctional control, a ratio of 1 in 31.
We can debate all day what to do with people like this, but instead of arguing with you, I want to try something.
Corrections professionals and their community partners are embarking upon an important and critical mission of offering the potential for offenders to become selfsufficient and to contribute positively to the society. We are also tackling the costly problem of recidivism that results in the return of approximately two-thirds of those released from prison within three years. Several extensive research studies have documented an unmistakable link between offenders’ capability to find and keep a job and reduction in recidivism.
Its two fold. Help the volunteers, and help the offenders.
We seek to equip our volunteers and partners with skills that can be used to assist offenders in the transition from prison and jails to careers that can provide productive employment and income for establishing a new life.
For offenders, entering the job market can be confusing, fraught with barriers and sometimes an overwhelming experience. Global competition, changing technology and shifts in demand for goods and services continue to reshape the job market. Computer delivery of labor market information regarding licensing or bonding requirements; working conditions; education and training requirements; wages, benefits and educational opportunities allow people to make informed decisions about career choices. Career decision-making and job search skills are essential for survival in the changing workforce. Failure to acquire essential career decision making and job search skills may ultimately contribute to higher recidivism rates, costly incarceration, and wasted human potential.
Offenders who are gainfully employed will be selfsufficient, not relying on the state to support them. They will become part of the tax-paying base and will be less likely to be involved in criminal behavior. By aiding offenders to become constructive members of the labor market and society everyone benefits. In turn, I believe that when inmates change their lives and become successful they will in turn try to help others that are coming out of institutions.
