NCJ Number
250257
Date Published
May 2016
Length
6 pages
Annotation
Recognizing the unique and important roles of both corrections and community providers of resources for imprisoned and just-released women, this article highlights important lessons learned about the strengths and challenges of correctional facility-community provider partnerships and what makes them effective.
Abstract
Five lessons are discussed. First, work to build trust. It is important for correctional facility officials and community service providers to engage one another in ongoing interactions that foster familiarity and an appreciation of one another's roles and responsibilities, as well as how cooperation can increase the likelihood of a successful reentry after release. Second, establish regular communication. This is critical in ensuring that the scheduling and integration of community service providers' prison visits are known to and facilitated by prison staff. Third, provide opportunities for cross-training. After a community service provider has been selected to provide a specific service or program and formal agreements or contracts have been made, it would be helpful for correctional staff to participate in a brief cross-training session with community service providers. Fourth, create efficient and effective protocols. Protocols are important in giving balance to the roles of community service providers and corrections officers in accepting and facilitating one another's responsibilities in both managing and serving inmates. Fifth, clarify goals and expectations for correctional officers and community service providers, with attention to how their separate responsibilities contribute to a common goal.