Rochester Re-entry Project for Young Fathers and Their Children

The Second Chance Act Strengthening Relationships Between Young Fathers, Young Mothers, and Their Children provides funding to support the successful transition of young fathers and mothers as they return to their families and communities from incarceration. This program funds coordinated and comprehensive strategies that incorporate (1) mentoring and transitional reentry services proven to reduce recidivism, (2) effective parenting skills development and parent/child relationship engagement for young fathers or mothers, and (3) private and community service partnerships that promote public safety and support added positive outcomes for young parents and their children.

The Urban League of Rochester's (ULR) Re-entry Project for Young Fathers and Their Children will serve 58 incarcerated fathers ages 16-24 who will return to live in the city of Rochester, New York, a city with high rates of arrests, poverty, and crime. This project will support the successful and safe transition of young fathers from secure confinement back to their families and the community. The program's goals are to reduce recidivism, promote responsible fatherhood, and improve education and employment outcomes. These goals will be achieved by providing intensive mentoring services; utilizing evidence-based practices; partnering with local agencies and organizations; and developing Individual Service Plans for each young father to provide comprehensive transitional support services. ULR staff will collaborate with Monroe County Sheriffs Jail Bureau to identify eligible program participants. Medium-to-high risk offenders will be given priority. Once eligible and interested incarcerated young fathers are identified, they will be paired with a Mentor Advocate to receive intensive mentoring services, attend Thinking for Change (T4C) workshops, engage in parenting workshops, and participate in workforce and education development services. CA/NCF