NCJ Number
69996
Date Published
1978
Length
234 pages
Annotation
This report evaluates Genesis Two, a nonresidential community-based treatment program for female probationers in Minnesota.
Abstract
The program has enrolled 81 clients from its July 1, 1976 start to June 30, 1978. The evaluation aimed to determine (1) if program goals were achieved, (2) whether the program was as effective as residential community-based corrections or traditional rehabilitation, (3) whether levels of treatment, services, and supervision were equivalent to those in other corrections methods, and (4) whether the program was cost effective. Both effort evaluation and performance evaluation were used. Results showed that Genesis Two offers a comprehensive range of clinical, educational, and vocational counseling and services. For the population served, the program appears to offer a wider range of services than is offered to female offenders who are incarcerated or on supervised probation. Client contact time is greater than for probation supervision but less than for residential or institutional settings. The proportion of clients achieving a vocation increased, but was less than that for two residential programs. Genesis Two was the least effective of all the programs in reducing client dependence on public funds. Client recidivism after 6 months was 4.3 percent, which was two to five times lower than the rates for residential programs or supervised probation. It is recommended that Genesis Two should be continued. In addition, (1) clients' initial screening be followed by vocational assessment and evaluation; (2) clients without high school diplomas or their equivalent be enrolled in adult education; (3) behavioral contracting be used; and (4) clients missing 40 program days be terminated. Additional recommendations, tables, and footnotes are included.