State Program Could Help Offenders Return to Society

PLAINFIELD, Ind. — A new re-entry and educational facility for inmates could make their transition to society easier and save taxpayers millions of dollars.

Sponsored by the state Department of Corrections, Plainfield Re-Entry Educational Facility, Indiana’s first inmate rehabilitation center, has partnered with state agencies and family and community organizations in an attempt to provide a smooth transition from jail to the community.

Of the 97 percent of the state’s adult offenders who serve their prison term and re-enter society, 39.3 percent will return to prison within three years, according to reports.

By providing freed inmates with access to post-release services, such as health care, substance abuse counseling and skills training, the center aims to reduce recidivism and the financial strain on taxpayers to house repeat offenders.

The facility is teaming up with Lincoln Bank, the Department of Workforce Development and the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles to help participants obtain everyday necessities, including a bank account, employment, a driver’s license or a state identification card.

Center officials say that obtaining a valid identification card is an important first step to reducing recidivism and helping offenders integrate into society.

Aramark Correctional Services plans to develop a program for the center called Inmate to Workmate, which will provide ex-offenders with culinary and food service training, practical work experience, vocational training classes, mentoring, coaching and job interview assistance.

Ivy Tech Community College has also partnered with the DOC to develop courses in logistics management, hospitality and entrepreneurship.