Build Up

During orientation individuals will have the opportunity to get to know the facilitators and the other group members. As a group you will discuss the structure of the program and commitments for individuals and the group. Also, we will talk about the concept of critical thinking and how it will be implemented in the group sessions.  

During two sessions the group will discuss systems of oppression and how they are related to incarceration. This will be an opportunity for individuals to share their experiences and frustrations. We also discuss the work that has been done to overcome these oppressive systems. Individuals will be encouraged to focus on themselves and how these systems have impacted them. 

This session will be an opportunity to focus internally, and for individuals to recognize their core beliefs and where the beliefs come from. The leaders and other group members will encourage and help each other to challenge those beliefs. Individuals will also be encouraged to define themselves and establish healthy foundations for developing a sense of self-value.  

In two sessions the group will focus on identifying what healthy wellness, or a healthy mindset, looks like for each individual. We will discuss individual obstacles to a healthy mental state and how being incarcerated may have contributed to a lack of mental wellness. The sessions will be an opportunity to understand tools to recognize unhealthy mental situations and how to reorient to healthier places.  

In two sessions the group conversation will focus on how to build healthy relationships. We will discuss ways to recognize and challenge toxic traits; understand and develop healthy communication skills; and build healthy relationships. 

These sessions will start by talking about personal finances. Through group conversation we will establish a foundation of knowledge for making good financial decisions. There will also be an opportunity to gain specific knowledge related to credit cards, debt, loans, and more; and specific skills related to creating a bank account, budgeting, creating a resume and more. Then, the leaders will move to talking about employment. In the conversations around employment, you will discuss tools for building self-confidence, personal goals for employment, and how to prepare for employment. 

This session will be a space for individuals to think about what their future looks like, and for them to establish a housing goal. There will be an opportunity to talk about experiences with transitional housing and renting. We will also talk about barriers to owning a home and tools to overcome those barriers.  

This session is an opportunity for individuals to discover and explore spirituality within themselves. We may discuss the power and benefit of spiritual awareness and a healthy spiritual community. This will also be an opportunity to talk through how to find balance in one's life. 

The final session is a space for individuals to connect with the concepts covered in all the sessions. Individuals will be encouraged to share lingering feelings and thoughts and address any topics that were not discussed. This space will also present an opportunity to express perspectives and experiences about the group.