After the sentence is through, an ex-offender could face difficulties in finding meaningful employment and reintegrating into society. Discrimination on the account of having a criminal is not a new story in the US. Millions of people have already been victimized by the matter.
The most important challenge, here, is the reduction of recidivism rates. The best way to go about it is job placement and rehabilitation for felons. The secondary methods are, of course, the formation of a society that is inclusive, understanding, and compassionate.
A trend across contemporary years has been to recognize the significance of providing opportunities and support for felons.
Reintegration brings alongside some challenges that cannot be overlooked
These challenges include:
- Discrimination and stigma
As an ex-offender, one could be a subject of discrimination. Challenges may crop up when attempting to secure job opportunities, education, and housing.
- Legal restrictions
When we consider the case of certain professions and industries, it might be possible that they put strict tabs on avoiding hiring people with a criminal record.
- Gap in skills
It may be possible that an individual is convicted when he has limited education or vocational training. The prospects of finding employment when the sentence is through could be limited.
- Insufficient support
An ex-convict could suffer on account of sufficient support systems not being in place. This sometimes makes it difficult to get through the different phases in life once the conviction is through. This is a scenario to be avoided as no one wants to turn a criminal back on the road to crime.
Rehabilitation programs for felons can make a difference under such circumstances
The core focus of rehabilitation programs for felons is to make sure that felons are in a better position to address the challenges that they face when they reenter society. These are initiatives towards providing a host of support services for ex-offenders, including education, mental health counseling, and vocational training.
Across the US, the rehabilitation programs being offered for ex-convicts can be vastly segregated under the following categories:
- Education and Vocational Training
Nowadays, a host of correctional facilities make educational programs available. They cover vocational training and GED courses. This equips inmates with the qualifications and skills that they require to enhance their employability.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
When an ex-convict undergoes a CBT program, it helps him with the identification of negative thoughts, such that he can change them for the better. He gets a chance to do so by bringing about a change in behaviors and patterns of his cognition.
- Substance Abuse Treatment
If an ex-convict has been battling substance abuse issues, he should be undergoing rehabilitation programs that address addiction. This will turn out to be a critical factor that will work towards reducing recidivism rates.
- Job readiness training
These programs bring job-readiness skills to the table, like resume writing and professional conduct.
- Reentry programs
With community-based reentry programs, people who were formerly incarcerated access support and resources. The odds of homelessness and recidivism are reduced.
Conclusion:
Reecareer is your trusted resource for addressing a host of requirements of ex-convicts, including job support, housing support, rehabilitation, and job training. One of our goals is to reintegrate felons into the society. Contact us today!
