South Park Neighborhood Association

PREP: Prisoner Re-Entry Partnership

What is the purpose of the project?

PREP is a collaboration of community-based organizations that have joined together to assist newly-released prisoners in Pima County with employment, mentoring, housing and supportive services. These organizations work to get capable non-violent and non-sex offenders back into the workplace and on the road to success. The project assists previously incarcerated persons with finding and maintaining employment, provides positive support that allows participants to find work and increase income, and reduces reincarceration by helping with community reintegration. The program is funded by the US Department of Labor.

What Services Does the Program Offer?

Assistance accessing mainstream services to obtain full-time employment. Job training, basic computer skills classes, work adjustment training, and resume building workshops. Funding for education and training programs, job-related tools, uniforms, and suppies are offered on an individual basis. Mentoring support: Mentors are matched with participants to facilitate community connections. Referrals for basis needs, such as eviction prevention, food boxes, utility shut-off prevention, health care, and education. Supportive services such as bus passes, interview attire, tattoo removal, and counseling. Transitional and supportive housing options through The Primavera Foundation and Old Pueblo Community Foundation.

Who is Eligible?

Males and females, 18 years or older, convicted of non-violent, non-sex offenses (property, drug, public order crimes)and released from prison within 180 days. Priority will be given to newly-released prisoners. Participants may be referred by probation/parole officers, the One Stop Career Center, or informational orientations. Each participant is assessed for employment skills and eligibility by a Primavera or DK Advocates employment specialist. Referrals for housing, substance abuse, abuse counseling and other support services will be directed to other agencies in the partnership. Participants are expected to obtain and maintain full-time employment and attain self-sufficiency. They must maintain weekly contact with employment specialists and work with probation/parole officers. They are expected to participate in recommended programs with partnership agencies and follow-up activities.

CONTACT PREP 520-882-9668