“It Means a Whole Lot:” In Prison Mentoring Experiences in the Louisiana Reentry Program

• In Event: Resources & Programs Aiding Reentry in Prison

Abstract

Like other prison reentry programs around the country, the reentry program in Louisiana provides educational, vocational, and substance abuse services to selected nonviolent inmates with the hope that these services will reduce recidivism upon release. The program is unique in that lifers who have undergone seminary training serve as social mentors for those participating in the reentry program. Using information from our extensive, qualitative interviews with both reentry program participants and mentors, we found some common themes, including personal and family history with the criminal justice system, educational and vocational challenges, tumult at home in childhood and adulthood, and substance abuse. We also found that both participants and mentors have generally positive, but somewhat complex, perceptions on the reentry program and that the notion of change is a crucial one for both groups, but in different ways. The information from these interviews is important in understanding persistent challenges for those reentering and what can be done to overcome them.

Authors

• Rae Taylor, Loyola University New Orleans

• Alexandra Cousins, Loyola University New Orleans

• Kelly Frailing, Loyola University New Orleans