NCJ Number
229851
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 71 Issue: 5 Dated: October 2009 Pages: 115-117
Date Published
October 2009
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article presents the features and successes of the 100-Hour Transitional Program designed and implemented by the Oklahoma Department of Corrections' Division of Community Corrections for inmate reentry into the community.
Abstract
Since implementation of the program in February 2008, three companies placed inmates in permanent hire status while they were still incarcerated. A follow-up on the status of these individuals found they had either maintained their initial position or had been promoted within the same company. Two had advanced from entry-level position to a trainer's position, and one had been promoted to a supervisor's position. Ninety-three inmates completed the program by yearend, many of whom were able to obtain driver's licenses, a vehicle, and housing to aid in sustaining their employability. The program consists of three phases and includes a comprehensive curriculum that addresses criminogenic needs of high-risk inmates. Risk levels for inmates are identified using the LSI-R. Each phase of the curriculum contains modules that guide the process. The program is designed on a 30-day cycle of 100 hours. The three phases are Goals and Communication (26 hours); Family and Health, 34 hours; and Community and Responsibility, 38 hours. Culture and character are introduced during program orientation and in the context of each phase. Additional program features include the Relational Inquiry Tool (RIT) developed by Family Justice (a national organization). RIT is designed to connect program participants with their families and restore relationships prior to program completion. Another program feature is the use of Character First, a prison training series on personal growth. Marketing was the key to community acceptance of the program. The marketing plan included a verbal contract with local businesses that were experiencing high turnover rates. These employers promised to hire program graduates. 4 notes