Mentors Needed to Make a Difference for Ex-Offenders

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About Cumberland County Adult Reentry Program

Location:

4 E. Liberty Avenue, Carlisle, PA 17013, US

Mission Statement

The primary focus of the Cumberland County Adult Reentry Program is to reduce criminal recidivism, lessen crime in our community and promote public safety. The initiative was birthed in January 2017, by CJAB (Cumberland County Criminal Justice Advisory Board), of which the Cumberland County Adult Probation Department is a supporter. CCARP’s mission is to provide human and social services relating to basic needs and addressing the barriers to succeeding upon reentering the community. This pre-release activity through a mentoring concept will promote a greater likelihood of their success following release from incarceration.

Description

CCARP reentry services include a mentoring component, in which pre-release and reentry services are provided to inmates through the use of mentors. The reentry initiative is a 5 week program where the mentors and mentees are introduced in the 5th week of the program. A clearance is implemented for the mentor and mentee to experience visitation periods prior to the inmate's release. The mentors serve as positive role models - offering consistent and caring guidance and support, encouraging personal development and betterment, inspiring pro-social attitudes and life skills, while enhancing the individual’s dignity and confidence. Through the development of a trusting and respectful relationship with the mentor, ex-offenders are better able to solve problems, overcome barriers, exercise accountability and responsibility, gain hope, and make wise choices. This translates into the success of these individuals returning to the Cumberland County community - effectively reducing recidivism and enhancing public safety as a result of fewer crimes, fewer victims, and more ex-offenders living productive lives. The mentoring component provides a one-on-one relationship that focuses on the rehabilitative needs of the mentored offender by assisting with their personal visioning and the transition to the community by developing active community partnerships addressing their individual needs.