Ready, Willing & Able Program

The Congressionally Recommended Awards Program, authorized by the Department of Justice Appropriations Act, 2010 (Pub. L. 111-117), helps improve the functioning of the criminal justice system, prevent or combat juvenile delinquency, and/or assist victims of crime (other than compensation). Funds should be used for the projects recommended by Congress, in the amounts specified in the joint explanatory statement incorporated by reference into Pub. L. 111-117, and generally consistent with one or more of the following statutory purposes: improving the functioning of the criminal justice system, preventing or combating juvenile delinquency, or assisting victims of crime (other than compensation). Each of these purposes is framed using language drawn, respectively, from the former Byrne discretionary statute, the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act, the Victims of Crime Act, and the Violence Against Women Act. This project is authorized and funded through a line item in the FY 2010 Congressional Budget and by the joint explanatory statement that is incorporated by reference into the FY2010 Department of Justice Appropriations Act.

The Doe Fund, Inc. will support its Brooklyn Ready, Willing & Able (RWA) Program. The program aims to enhance offender reentry and reduce recidivism by helping formerly incarcerated persons achieve economic self-sufficiency through employment. RWA participants will be placed in transitional paid work assignments that instill solid work habits, build work histories, and develop marketable skills. The program will also provide supportive services including case management, substance abuse relapse prevention and drug testing, education, occupational training, job and housing placement, and follow-up services to ensure participants make a lasting transition to self-sufficiency and crime-free living.

NCA/NCF