RYOC Unlocking Networks (RUN)

Applicants Legal Name:The Center for Self-Sufficiency (CFSS)

Project Title: Unlocking Networks

Geographic Location and Correctional Partner Agencies: CFSS and its collaborative partners, the Wisconsin Department of Corrections, Easy Method, Centro Legal, Employ Milwaukee, Dr. Jerlando Jackson and the NAACP propose to deliver a Comprehensive Community-Based Adult Reentry Program to 150 men ages 18 and older, releasing from Racine Youthful Offender Correctional Facility (RYOC) into Milwaukee, WI.

Project Purpose, Goals and Deliverables: Unlocking Network’s goal is to develop and implement a comprehensive program to reduce recidivism of 150 individuals returning from RYOC to Milwaukee. Services will directly address criminogenic risk and needs, as determined by the COMPAS assessment.

Unlocking Networks will integrate core evidence-based strategies of Cognitive Based Healthy Relationship Education & Behavioral Work Readiness Development, Mindfulness Based Stress- Reduction, Parenting, Mentoring, Experiential Nutrition Education and Holistic & Trauma Informed Case Management to reach goals of educating, inspiring and helping participants navigate their lives more self-sufficiently. CFSS will use a client case management system to track individual, and aggregate, project goals and deliverables.

Unlocking Network participant’s will be screened, assessed, and identified for program participation and the case management services and evidence-based programming will begin during the pre-release phase. During the post-release phase of the reentry program, participants will receive case management services and be connected to services designed to assist in the transition from prison to the community so that it is safe and successful.

Priority Considerations

CFSS will contract with Dr. Jerlando Jackson to conduct an independent evaluation.
The individuals who are intended to benefit from the requested grant reside in high- poverty areas or persistent-poverty counties.
The CFSS Unlocking Networks services offer enhancements to public safety in economically distressed communities (Qualified Opportunity Zones).