The Northern Region Independence and Re-entry Success Center is the JJC’s first program that houses transitional residents only.
The Success Center can accommodate up to 25 males who have been paroled or completed a Community Program as a Probationer and that live in all counties north of Middlesex (including Middlesex). Parolees attend as a condition of their parole, and probationers attend when they have completed a community program and have been granted a release date.
Each young person receives a myriad of services that are best suited to meet his release plan, to include, career exploration, health/ wellness, life skills, family reunification or independent living. Family visits are encouraged and residents are permitted to visit their homes, schools and work sites in accordance with program policies and the JJC’s Preparation for Independence program while residing at the Success Center.
A resident’s stay at the Success Center can range from two weeks to 45 days. Program completion is determined by each resident’s behavior, their individual completion of transitional goals, and the recommendation of the Success Center transitional team.
The program offers a variety of services that enable young people to be more successful upon their release. There are seven content areas that must be addressed before release. While many items may seem simple, they have a significant impact on a young person’s long term success.
Identification Credentials
Official identification credentials are often required to obtain a job, lease an apartment, or apply for post -secondary education. Residents receive assistance in obtaining their voter registration cards, copies of their birth certificates or naturalization cards, social security cards, or Motor Vehicle Identification documents. The requirement to register for the Selective Service is also fulfilled at this time.
Career/Technical education
Participants leaving the Success Center must be enrolled in high school or have obtained their high school diploma or GED. Those eligible must be enrolled in a secondary/post- secondary educational program, vocational certificate program, or have identified employment. Assistance is provided to help students complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Career Exploration/Job Readiness
This component ensures that residents have an updated resume, have completed online job applications, and have attended career counseling. Sessions include topics such as the job interview process, dressing for success, and choosing the correct career path or job.
Therapeutic
Understanding the struggles that face young people when they return home, the therapeutic component of the program requires participants to participate in a family reunification meeting and substance abuse education classes based on their individual need. In addition, mental health counseling is available based on a clinical assessment.
Life Skills
This component allows participants to learn the basics of banking and budgeting. It also includes sex education courses and parenting classes if appropriate.
Preparation for Independent Living
For those young people who leave the JJC to an independent living situation, assistance is provided in apartment hunting, budgeting living expenses, and tasks such as grocery shopping.
Road to Home
This final component serves as a check and balance to ensure that each young person is prepared to return home. Prior to release each resident will have a physical exam, which includes any necessary immunizations and a health and wellness session. Assistance will also be provided to obtain health insurance. Lastly, each resident engages in a community service activities. |