Breakthrough Program Expansion

Breakthrough Alliance of Colorado proposes to implement the Breakthrough Program Expansion at Skyline Correctional Facility in Canon City, CO and La Vista Correctional Facility in Pueblo, CO. The purpose is to expand a strategic and effective program/solution to the pressing challenges of recidivism and societal reintegration. This will foster lasting change, empower individuals with criminal histories, and build safer, more prosperous communities for all.

Project activities include implementation of ‘The Challenge’ programming a 32-week (8-month) program in which they will be asked to alter their lives and mindsets in difficult and vulnerable ways that enhance each individual's Career Readiness, Character Development, Reentry Planning, and the Entrepreneurial Mindset. Soft skills covered include, but are not limited to, emotional self-awareness, self-assessment, self-alignment, self-confidence, self-blame, self-restraint, stress tolerance, and resilience. Job readiness and reentry planning topics include goal-setting, job search in the 21st century, resume building, intro to interviewing, time management, budgeting and cost of living, community resources, and mock interviews. The entrepreneurial mindset dives into business ideation, business models, finance, customer development, and teamwork. Expected outcomes include the provision of evidence-based programming; addressing the reentry needs of individuals upon release; a reduction in recidivism for Breakthrough participants; and regular program assessments to enhance programmatic effectiveness and outcomes. Additional activities include vocational skills training, job/career preparation, career exploration and planning, and skill-building services, including apprenticeships and occupational training.