Post Release Education
Program (PREP) is a component of the Sheriff's Department's Alternative
Programs Division. PREP was developed to address the educational, counseling
and community transitional needs of prisoners.
Eligible prisoners are
transferred from jail during the last 60 days of their sentences to
participate in SWAP/PREP. Participants spend two days per week in educational
and counseling programs at the PREP Center at 930 Bryant Street; the
remaining three days are spent on supervised work crews in the community.
PREP staff provides a
variety of counseling, educational and community reentry services to
assist participants in their transition back to the community. Special
note is made of substance abuse issues, history of violence and medical
or psychiatric needs. Recommendations for in-house classes/groups and/or
outside referrals are made where appropriate.
Participants are responsible
for adhering to program rules and polices. Failure to adhere to all
program requirements results in disciplinary action, which may include
return to jail.
Required
community restoration activities include attending support groups and
job training, speaking at schools, juvenile hall and in the faith community,
and participation in community theater productions and public forums
in neighborhoods with high crime rates.
The
custody component of this program is described under Jail Programs (RSVP),
and victim services are under Community Programs (RSVP/Victim
Services).
