The Denver Metropolitan Prisoner Re-Entry Initiative is a national grant that has been awarded to Empowerment and a number of sub-awardees including Turnabout. The goal of DMPRI is to help recently released, non-violent, offenders successfully reintegrate back into society. The program provides intensive case management, employment assistance, housing referrals, and other support services including limited hard-skills training.
Key to the support services provided is Turnabout’s Employment Search Program. This 13 ½ hour course, covering 3 days, includes training in interviewing prep/skills, goal setting, and resume building.
The Mentoring Program is another critically important element in the successful transition of all participants. A cognitive approach to behavior change is the foundation of this support service. Participants are encouraged to examine their traditional ways of thinking and decision making. Clearly identifying thinking distortions and learning to incorporate more appropriate approaches to life’s difficulties and challenges is the hallmark of all mentoring efforts. Positive re-enforcement and role model ship help to drive this programs’ success.