Mentoring Program

Upon release, most returning citizens have fewer resources at their disposal. They return to their communities needing housing and employment, with untreated substance use disorders and other issues. Most do not have financial resources and many do not have a high level of formal education or any solid job prospects. Connecting people to community-based resources is critical for successful reentry. Through collaborative programming with correctional facilities, The Village Initiative provide mentoring to high-risk individuals six months to a year before release and 6 months after their release from incarceration. The Village Initiative’s program goals are to reduce the risks of recidivating and to help returning citizens restart their lives on the right path.

Phase One—Pre-release

Phase One is an institution-based program designed to prepare returning citizens to reenter society. The most successful outcomes occur when programs and supports start several months before release and continue in the community settings. Mentors at this phase are providing support, being role models, building healthy relationships, and developing trust. All participants will receive case management. The most important needs such as housing, identification, employment, substance use disorder, and family reunification will be addressed before release.

Phase Two – Post-Release

The mentoring relationship that was cultivated in the pre-release phase will continue in the community setting. This is a six-month-long community-based program. The case manager and the mentor will continue to meet individual needs. Services will include transitional housing, job placement, transportation, ID/birth certificates, parenting classes, food, clothing, licensed counselors for addiction, domestic violence, anger management, and grief counseling. The goal is to meet their basic needs, get them employed, rebuild family relationships, keep them clean and sober to start a productive life that will lower their risk of recidivating.