NCJ Number
173439
Date Published
1993
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This paper describes the history and mission of the Offender Aid and Restoration (OAR) program.
Abstract
OAR began with the concept that caring citizens can make a difference to individual offenders and their families, the community in which they live and the criminal justice system itself. Specific elements of OAR programs include: (1) One-to-One With Inmates to help them make decisions and constructive plans for successful post-release community living; (2) One-to-One With Families to provide emotional support and practical counsel to keep families intact; (3) Mentoring that concentrates on a specific task such as securing and retaining employment; (4) Group Facilitation of 12-step programs, anger management classes, parenting skills, etc.; (5) Education, from basic literacy to advanced college placement; (6) Vocational Training; (7) Community Education to facilitate citizens' acceptance of former prison inmates; and (8) Boards of Directors to set policy and ensure implementation of the organizational mission. The paper also describes volunteer program management and recognition and rewards.