Many steps to successful release from prison;
simulation helps with a reality check
Pendleton, Ind. - Correctional Industrial Facility recently held its first annual re-entry simulation. The simulation is a hands-on activity that illustrates some of the challenges and barriers offenders will face in the first month of being released. This program began in the Federal Bureau of Prisons and has since been incorporated into the policy that governs prerelease in every adult prison in Indiana.
Thirty-six offenders from the Purposeful Living Units Serve (PLUS) program “manned” the simulation tables and played the role of the released offender. “Released offenders” were given scenario cards that included information regarding their housing, any money they may have, employment information, parole requirements, vital documents, etc. Various community services and businesses were placed around the room and released offenders were required to complete certain tasks based on their scenario card. Each trip to a service or business required a transportation ticket. Many services also required an ID and Social Security Card to obtain services. “Released offenders” were not given specifics as to what services were offered at each station nor were they given a list of the requirements necessary to obtain service at any given station.
“Released offender”, Collins stated, “Learning how to prioritize our tasks and then simulating executing them was refreshing and very well may prove helpful to some of us.” Participant Hobson played the role of the probation officer. He stated, “It was an eye-opening experience to be on the opposite side of the desk. To have to determine someone’s fate is not an easy task.”
The purpose of this simulation is to allow offenders to feel the stress of release, demonstrating the difficulty of locating resources without wasting time, money, and effort by going to unnecessary places or going to the correct location without the proper documentation. According to participant Collins, “The cold reality is that a percentage of us will get out and fail, however, because of this simulation, I felt that myself and everyone who took part is better prepared to thrive upon our release and become productive members of society.”
Article courtesy of Hope Greathouse, Re-Entry Coordinator with the Indiana Department of Correction
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