Project WORKS! (When Opportunity Really Knocks!)

The Second Chance Act of 2007 (Pub. L. 110-199) reflects a comprehensive response to the increasing number of people who are released from prison and jail and are returning to communities. Section 211 of the Act authorizes grants to nonprofit organizations and federally recognized Indian tribes that may be used for mentoring projects to promote the safe and successful reintegration into the community of adults who have been incarcerated. “Mentoring” refers to a developmental relationship in which a more experienced person helps a less experienced person develop an enhanced sense of self-worth and specific knowledge and skills to increase the chance of successful reentry.

The goal of the Comprehensive Community-Based Adult Reentry Program Utilizing Mentors is to promote more effective and successful reentry for formerly incarcerated individuals through the utilization of comprehensive, evidence-based wrap-around reentry plans which address the identified needs of the individuals and are supported by trained mentors. These needs are often related to housing, employment, substance abuse, and mental health.

The recipient will use grant funds towards the Project WORKS! Program. Project WORKS! provides job and employment focused mentoring to reduce recidivism and increase financial stability for fathers. The program will serve 210 fathers with children under 18 incarcerated at Central New Mexico Correctional Facility or recent parolees.

CA/NCF