2021 RISE In-Prison Program Review
By Maria Moreno, Director of Programs
The RISE In-Prison Program continued to have programming delays in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic as facilities would go into lockdowns for weeks - even months on end. However, our program participants and peer facilitators stayed focused and determined, often meeting with their fellow classmates in housing units, which allowed the program to stay on course.
We may have faced a few graduation delays and rescheduling, but once graduations rolled around, everyone was ready to celebrate all of the hard work they had dedicated to the program.
It was incredible to once again have families join our graduation events this year - to see our Graduates be parents to their children, to celebrate the journey of rebuilding their lives, and to recognize the love and support they receive from their loved ones at home.
Separation from family members during the pandemic has been incredibly challenging, with visits being limited and in-person visits not resuming until May of 2021.
Over the past year, we have also had the opportunity to start new activities inside facilities. At the Nebraska Correctional Center for Women, RISE Graduates initiated a new RISE Ambassadors Club where they bring learning opportunities to their fellow peers.
The Graduates organized a large Reentry Expo with over 60 people in attendance. At the Expo, RISE staff, RISE Graduates, and other reentry organizations led workshops about shifting mindsets, preparing for reentry, effective interviewing skills, and budgeting. We also had the opportunity to offer parenting and healthy relationship classes, led by our new Youth and Family Associate, Alana Alexander, as well as mindfulness classes led by volunteer, Caitlin Finn.
