Programs In Community Correction Centers

The End Violence Project has created a program called Freedom by Design, a support group for ex-offenders living in Community Correction Centers (previously known as Halfway Houses). While in prison, inmates feel alone and isolated and protect themselves. When released from prison, ex-offenders have an exhilarating sense of freedom and want to have fun. They can have fun and choose to be free from the cycle of incarceration. Designing a life of freedom is a powerful choice.

1. Freedom by Design
2. 408 N 8th Street, Philadelphia, PA
3. Friday Nights, 7:00 to 8:30p.m.

Open to everyone residing in the Community Correction Center, the Freedom by Design group meets once a week and is lead by ex-offenders who have become community leaders. They in turn help the participants become leaders. As Jeffrey Bond, one of the community leaders, says "the emphasis is on them becoming leaders right where they are, not one day, some day." Mr. Bond asks participants to "challenge yourself right here. If you can be a leader here, you can do it anywhere."

The sessions are interactive and deal with today's issues. Participants also get coached. At a recent session a participant said he went to his "mom's house to steal food." The leader interrupted him saying "we know what you mean, but others don't. You're going to eat at your mom's house, not steal food. People don't understand what you just said. You're going to have to watch your language now that you're out (of prison)."

Participants are urged to look at what their interests are or were before going to prison. As Jeffrey Bond explained how he started the tennis program for neighborhood children, participants started thinking about their interests in sports, music, teaching, writing, etc. These participants are future community leaders. Right now they're getting grounded in their own freedom, the possibility of safe communities and stopping the cycle of violence and re-incarceration.

The program in Community Correction Centers also addresses basic needs, including assistance obtaining proper identification, transportation passes, clothing, and support in finding employment.