WHAT WE DO…

PREPARE FOR RE-ENTRY

 In the quest to reshape the trajectory of individuals within the prison system, Horizon Communities in Prison stands as a beacon of transformative success. Their unwavering commitment to instigating change when an individual steps into the prison environment challenges the conventional wisdom of rehabilitation programs. Unlike the grim statistics presented by the National Institute of Justice, where 56.7% face rearrest within a year of release, Horizon has persistently defied the odds.

Founded on the principle that genuine reformation requires a holistic approach, Horizon has been pioneering residential programs since 1999. Their vision extends beyond punitive measures; instead, they strive to mold incarcerated individuals into exemplars of responsible living. In a world where breaking societal norms results in isolation within prison walls, Horizon envisions a future where these individuals emerge not as societal outcasts, but as constructive contributors to the communities they once transgressed.

The harsh reality of the high recidivism rate has forced states to reevaluate and adapt their approaches. Over the past 18 years, numerous programs and administrative strategies have been tested, but few have demonstrated tangible success. Amidst this tumultuous landscape, Horizon Communities in Prison has remained resilient, boasting a recidivism rate of 5.6%.

Horizon's model has proven adaptable and effective when navigating through varying state policies, program implementations, and even changes in prison administration. Whether facing supportive or resistant administrations, the organization has stood firm, fostering an environment with fewer disciplinary incidents and consistently producing graduates who reintegrate into society successfully.

In a world where systemic flaws often hinder the efforts of rehabilitation, Horizon Communities in Prison stands as a testament to the potential for change. Their sustained success underscores the importance of early and comprehensive intervention, challenging the very foundations of a penal system that has long struggled to break the cycle of recidivism. As the rest of the nation grapples with the shortcomings of existing models, Horizon remains a beacon of hope, illuminating the transformative possibilities that can arise when re-entry preparation becomes a focal point from day one.

  • Within the structured confines of the societal enclave, individuals voluntarily become part of a transformative community - a political and social microcosm where safety is not just enforced but cultivated through a shared commitment to rules and order. This unique voluntarism instills a profound sense of belonging, propelling participants toward self-actualization, a journey that begins behind the prison walls.

    In this technologically progressive environment, computers in day rooms become gateways to education. The incarcerated, without a G.E.D. or equivalent, embark on educational pursuits, navigating a curriculum that includes college courses and computer literacy programs. The objective is to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the swiftly evolving landscape of technology upon re-entry. Concurrently, classes promoting literature, writing, and art unlock the latent brilliance within minds previously inclined towards harm, redirecting their cognitive prowess towards constructive avenues.

    This groundbreaking program draws inspiration from both Biblical and moral principles, establishing statutes that maintain order. Embracing a multi-faith perspective, the community becomes a tapestry of diverse beliefs, fostering understanding that extends beyond the prison walls. Such interfaith cooperation not only prepares participants for the mosaic of beliefs awaiting them post-release but also addresses the spiritual needs of a society within the prison context.

    In the complex realm of economics, Horizon challenges traditional notions. Discouraging sharing and bartering—commonplace practices in wider society—participants are urged to care for one another, creating a communal strength where everyone's needs are met. Closets stocked with essentials aid those without external support, fostering trust and understanding as personal narratives unfold, revealing the vulnerabilities that need repair.

    Re-entry is not a distant milestone; it commences the moment an individual enters the Horizon program. Here, the principles of Maslow's hierarchy of needs and the functionality of Northwest's society converge, creating an environment where transformation is not just encouraged but achieved. The establishment of a Horizon Community requires not only proper funding but also the approval of the Warden and administration. Placing a Horizon dorm within a prison initiates a ripple effect, enhancing existing programs and spreading an ethos of safety, education, and rehabilitation throughout the entire correctional facility. Horizon Communities become crucibles of positive change, challenging the traditional narrative of incarceration and setting a new standard for the reformation of individuals within the criminal justice system.

    • Personal Financial Management

    • Credit and Debt Management

    • Employability

    • Small Business Concepts

    • Life Mapping

    • Quest

    • Anger Management

    • Conflict Resolution

    • Basic Keyboarding

    • Computer Literacy

    • G.E.D. Preparation

    • Conscious Discipline

    • Decision Points

    • Safe Environment

    • Community Atmosphere

    • Focus on Education

    • Better Lifestyle Choices

    • Opportunity to Focus on Individual Needs

    • Societal Simulations for Proper Re-entry