RE-ENTRY BEFORE PAROLE
Alfred Long Sr.

Starting re-entry before being paroled is crucial because it allows individuals to begin preparing for life outside of prison, both mentally and practically. It allows them to address potential challenges such as finding housing, and employment, reconnecting with family, and accessing support services. Additionally, starting re-entry early can help individuals develop the essential skills and mindset necessary for a successful transition back into society, reducing the likelihood of recidivism.

It is important to prepare individuals spiritually, mentally, and practically for re-entry. It’s like a three-legged stool, if one of these components is missing, the stool will likely teeter, eventually causing one to fall.

Successful re-entry programs are comprehensive and offer all three of these components and where they may lack, they collaborate with other programs. 

Our ministry (Jacob’s Ladder Ministries) offers a class, “Behavior Changes for Successful Re-entry” in our local and state institutions to prepare individuals to mentally, emotionally, and spiritually navigate the rocky terrain of re-entry.

We teach five key components necessary for successful recovery:

• Overcoming Criminal Thinking

Replacing criminal thinking with right thinking is crucial for individuals transitioning out of the criminal justice system because it helps them adopt positive attitudes, behaviors, and decision-making skills necessary for successful reintegration into society. Criminal thinking often involves rationalizing illegal behavior, minimizing the consequences of actions, and blaming others, which can hinder personal growth and lead to further involvement in criminal activities. Right thinking, on the other hand, involves taking responsibility for one's actions, developing empathy, and making constructive choices that align with societal norms and values. By replacing criminal thinking with right thinking, individuals can build a foundation for a law-abiding and productive life post-release.

• Anger Management

Addiction recovery is paramount for successful re-entry into society because substance abuse issues can significantly hinder an individual's ability to reintegrate effectively. Addressing addiction allows individuals to regain control over their lives, make healthier choices, and rebuild relationships damaged by substance abuse. Additionally, substance abuse often co-occurs with criminal behavior, and overcoming addiction reduces the likelihood of relapse and recidivism. By prioritizing addiction recovery during re-entry, individuals can access support networks, develop coping strategies, and gain the necessary skills to navigate life without turning to drugs or alcohol. This not only improves their chances of successful reintegration but also enhances overall well-being and quality of life.

• The Importance of Spirituality

Spirituality can play a significant role in successful recovery by providing individuals with a sense of purpose, connection, and support during challenging times. For many, spirituality offers a framework for understanding personal values, finding meaning in life, and cultivating resilience in the face of adversity. Incorporating spirituality into recovery can provide individuals with a sense of hope, inner peace, and guidance as they navigate the challenges of overcoming addiction. Additionally, spiritual practices such as meditation, prayer, or participating in religious communities can offer emotional support, foster a sense of belonging, and provide opportunities for self-reflection and personal growth. By embracing spirituality as part of their recovery journey, individuals can develop a strong foundation for long-term sobriety and holistic well-being.

• Planning and Goal Setting

Planning and goal setting are essential for successful reentry because they provide individuals with direction, purpose, and a roadmap for achieving their aspirations post-release. By setting specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals, individuals can identify areas of focus, break down larger objectives into manageable steps, and track their progress over time. Planning and goal setting also help individuals anticipate potential challenges, develop strategies for overcoming obstacles, and stay motivated throughout the reentry process. Furthermore, having clear goals can provide a sense of empowerment and control over one's future, reducing the likelihood of recidivism and increasing the chances of successful integration into society.

We now teach this class in St. Louis City Jail and St. Charles County Jail and have a proposal to teach it at MECC in Pacific, MO.

Pray for our men!

Alfred Long Sr. (Pastor Al) is available for Addiction Recovery coaching and consulting, speaking engagements and coaching and consulting for “Starting and Maintaining a Prison Ministry”.

along@jacobslm.com

jacobslm.org

(314) 282-7220