NCJ Number
229844
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 71 Issue: 5 Dated: October 2009 Pages: 44-47
Date Published
October 2009
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article describes the "True Grit" program at the Northern Nevada Correctional Center (NNCC), which is a structured living program that has rules and regulations designed to empower elderly inmates to live as healthfully as possible in a time of shrinking correctional resources.
Abstract
True Grit has grown and flourished because of volunteerism and donations from various organizations and individuals. The psychologist who oversees the program is funded by the State for a separate function, so her salary is not attributed to True Grit. Approximately 55 percent of the men in True Grit are military veterans. This proportion of veterans is sufficient for the program director to become involved with the University Veterans Coalition at the University of Nevada, Reno. Through this interaction, volunteers have become involved with the incarcerated veterans, exploring ways to establish reentry programs for veterans, as well as to enhance interactions between the elderly veterans and those housed in other areas. True Grit members include a number of professional musicians and a larger number of gifted amateur musicians. Using donated musical instruments, sheet music, and other supplies, True Grit has created several musical groups that perform for members as well as other venues. The True Grit has also established a 20-voice choir, a 7-member doo-wop group, a country ensemble, and a senior pop group. Other creative endeavors include latch hook rug-making, crocheting, painting, jigsaw puzzle-making, beading, and other crafts. Maintaining physical fitness is also a significant part of True Grit. Other program activities include a pet therapy program operated by volunteers and discharge planning for reentry. Non-State funding avenues, such as Federal or private grants, are being explored with a view toward establishing an internship program within True Grit. 4 notes