I appreciate the welcome. One of my goals is to have an article out by mid October about Forensic Peer Support (FPS.)
FPS is allowing people with prior criminal backgrounds who have been able to stop recidivating (going back to jail/prison over and over) and instead establish a life of value to support, guide, and hold accountable those currently incarcerated or on parole/probation. The Peer Supporter is trained about the criminal justice system and educated about resources and communication skills.
What we are finding, is that the lived experience helps create quick trust and a standard of personal responsibility that is hard to achieve with other paid service providers (primarily because of the ability to call bullshit when a person tries to give up or manipulate the system.) The few states trying this service out are finding it effective on many levels and many prior inmates state they are able to develop friendships with positive role models and gain more motivation, because FPSs don't give up. people can leave the service anytime they want, and re-enter the service when they want to try again, in essence creating an un-burnable bridge of support.
More so, FPS gives those with a criminal background a chance at employment that they would not normally have. So many people that are willing to try give up because they can not earn an income to maintain housing, let alone income high enough to establish oneself in a life they can value or one of which they can be proud.
I look forward to hearing your opinion on the topic once I have all the info put together.
RE: Hello from D.J. Rees