Corrections_Today_January_February_2019

View from the Line

on their latest efforts for offender reform: a facility dedicated solely to re-entry. In early 2018, GDC opened Metro Re-entry Facil- ity (MRF). MRF is a 356-bed medium security facility that utilizes evidence-based practices and com- munity collaboration to address all barriers for successful re-entry into society and reduce recidivism by addressing the physical, social, intel- lectual, environmental, emotional and spiritual needs for offenders returning to the metropolitan Atlanta area. The program is 12-months long, with four levels of progression. The program may last longer and is based on the offenders’ progress or lack of progress. The mission of the program is to ensure every returning citizen released to the community has the tools needed to succeed in society. It includes four levels of simultaneous participation in academic and vocational educa- tion programs, general electives (personal development), extra- curricular activities, community service and counseling/cognitive/SA programming. MRF has also partnered with local technical colleges to provide certifications in forklift operations, construction, manufacturing support technician, national career readiness and ServSafe Food Handler/Manager — OSHA Certification. In addition, staff and offenders will focus on soft skill training — getting organized, identification cards, employment, clothing, transportation, food, money management, medical, education, family reunification, restoration of rights, living under supervision and more. →

of which helps prepare them for the workforce. With the mandatory contribution of 20 percent deposited to offender sav- ings account, offenders are able to start building their future while still incarcerated. Working together, GDC and GCI’s PIECP program play a vital role in the re-entry process. Both agencies are com- mitted to providing on-the-job training and education to increase the chance for success upon release. GCI strives to strengthen PIECP op- portunities by building relationships with private contractors, new busi- ness opportunities and educating community stakeholders. Given that most offenders will be released at some point, it is beneficial to the private

Photo courtesy Georgia Correctional Industries

Welding at GCI’s Walker Metal Plant.

long-term success. PIECP allows offenders the opportunity to engage in real world job assignments and receive wages based on Department of Labor standards. GCI’s PIECP pro- gram focuses on establishing private partnerships throughout the state in order to further support and pro- mote re-entry programs and reform policies. Our program teaches respon- sibility, work ethic and encourages them to produce a quality product they can be proud of. Along with this realistic working environment they must clock in and out, follow direc- tives, report to a supervisor, build soft skills and gain confidence — all

sector to partner with PIECP, pro- mote job training and have a reliable labor pool for potential hire upon re- lease. Building relationships between offenders and private employers can increase successful job placement for participants. In addition, Georgia offers tax incentives to businesses that hire returning citizens and parol- ees and provides liability coverage through a federal bonding program administered by the Georgia Depart- ment of Labor. Re-entry innovations The GDC hosted one of the summit workshops, which focused

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