20240326-004 FY24-25 Budget Recommendation - Supporting Reentry Programs — original pdf

Recommendation

HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240326-4 Supporting Reentry Programs Date: March 26, 2024 Subject: FY24-25 Budget Recommendation – Supporting Reentry Programs Motioned By: Commissioner Lyssette Galvan Seconded By: Commissioner Daniela Silva Recommendation Historically, On-Point Reentry Consortium (OPRC) stands out as a pioneering nonprofit, dedicated to empowering individuals who have been impacted by the judicial system to redefine their lives through successful reentry. Among the most vulnerable groups in our city, these individuals more than often are from diverse and underserved communities. By participating in OPRC, these individuals not only rebuild their lives but also become effective and contributing members of our community, enriching its fabric through their newfound skills and experiences. To address their needs effectively, the commission strongly advocates for funding to support one full-time employee (FTE) and programming at OPRC. Description of Recommendation to Council ● Allocate $100,000 to reentry programs. Rationale: According to the Texas Criminal Justice Data Snapshot by the Bureau of Justice Assistance at the US Department of Justice and Justice Center with The Council of State Governments, 15% of individuals who exited the judicial system in 2019 cycled back into the system within three years. Therefore, ensuring successful reintegration into society, particularly through wraparound services, is imperative to mitigate recidivism rates. Historically, the On-Point Reentry Consortium (OPRC) stands as a unique beacon in Austin and Texas, boasting unparalleled expertise and experience. Comprised of BIPOC women leaders trained by the National Institute of Corrections and the Department of Justice, OPRC’s work is paramount, especially in a state like Texas with high incarceration rates. It serves as a vital resource to reduce recidivism and reintegrate judicially impacted individuals into communities, tapping into an underutilized workforce pool. In the past year, OPRC achieved remarkable milestones: ● Serving approximately 600 judicially impacted individuals through tailored reentry-specific training, consulting, and coaching services, aiding them to rebuilding their lives and careers. 1 of 3 ● Donating over 3,600 hours of invaluable time and expertise, valued at more than $370,000, to sustain programming and support clients, despite lacking paid FTEs. ● Securing free office space from three esteemed community organizations, signifying recognition of OPRC’s value and impact while fostering collaboration. ● Training and certifying 80 community providers in evidence-based training from the Department of Justice and the National Institute for Corrections, called Reentry Employment Specialist. ● Organizing a Reentry Community Resource Fair in partnership with Findhelp.org, Workforce Solutions, and Goodwill of Central Texas, drawing over 150 attendees. ● Conducting Work Ethic Workshops and distributing 127 computers and hotspots to clients with sponsorship from INDEED and PCs4P. ● Presenting reentry and job readiness information to inmates in the Del Valle Correctional Complex and the Federal Bureau of Prisons in Bastrop. ● Collaborating and signing MOUs with numerous nonprofits bolstering service offerings. Demographically, OPRC’s clientele reflects the diversity of the populations served with notable statistics, including: ● 45% African American ● 44% Latino ● 10% Caucasian ● 1% Asian ● 75% male ● 20% female ● 5% no-binary ● Average age of clients is 41, with most possessing at least a 5th-grade reading level and a GED or high school diploma. OPRC’s holistic approach ensures culturally sensitive support tailored to the unique needs of returning citizens. The organization facilitates access to emotional, financial, housing, employment, and mental health resources, bridging gaps and eliminating obstacles hindering successful reentry. Additionally, OPRC fosters collaboration among service providers to ensure seamless coordination for clients, continually refining practices based on evidence-based and best practices. The workshops offered by OPRC has historically demonstrated its commitment to comprehensive support: ● Work Ethic 101: Instilling professionalism, time management, and cooperation skills ● IMPACT: Equipping clients with motivation, positivity, achievement, commitment, and essentials for workplace success. teachability to overcome barriers. ● The Important of D.I.R.T.: Guiding clients to embody Dignity, Integrity, Respect, and Trust for personal and professional growth. ● Navigating the City of Austin Application for Community Members: Assisting in job applications, resume crafting, and interview preparation for city roles. The commission recommends allocating $100,000 to support reentry programs. 2 of 3 For: Commissioner Silva, Commissioner Afifi, Commissioner Vargas, Commissioner Perales, Commissioner Castañeda, Commissioner Galvan, Commissioner Jackson Jr. Absent: Commissioner Neri, Commissioner May, Commissioner Maldonado Vote: 7-0 Against: None Abstain: None Attest: Amanda Afifi, Chair 3 of 3