HELP! I JUST CAME HOME AND I NEED TO PROVIDE FOR MY FAMILY.

What happens to the thousands of young men who are released from prison into a knowledge and service economy? The majority of them leave prison with the posessions they entered prison with and little more. Most people would agree that they shouldn’t leave prison with wealth or riches however few would argue that these men are destined to repeat their deviance if there isn’t a drastic change that takes place in their circumstances and more importantly in their character. Where does an ex-offender start when he/she leaves the institution? Let’s look at their options. Social Services(DHR) is an option, they can receive government assistance for food (snap), possibly temporary cash assistance, as well as temporary health insurance. Ex-offenders can go to nonprofits for job readiness programs whre they can receive assistance in career development (resume writing, basic interviewing skills). Ex-offenders can go into the job market independently and compete for employment. Lastly, they can go into the underground economy and risk going back to prison. There are 3 things that an ex-offender must have to be successful after reentry. They must have a transendent vision, a plan and  support. The vision must be based on contemplative introspection where they look at their skills, abilities, desires and their personality makeup. The vision must also include a transcendent cause that motivates them so that they can endure hardship. After the internal work is done they will have the focus needed to pursue appropriate employment.   The planning aspect must include flexibility, it must be written, it should include appropriate training, and be visible to the ex-offender at all times. The plan should be time sensitive and realistic. The final thing needed is support. They must have coaching, accountability and encouragement. The source of the support is less important than having the support itself. The ex-offender will leave prison and hear no often, they must be prepared for this and have the stamina to persevere. With vision, a plan and support the ex-offender can reenter society and become a productive citizen.