Iowa State University Extension

Problem:
Returning to society after incarcerat ion can be a very challenging task for offenders. The staff at the Fifth Judicial District Fort Des Moines Men's Residential Facility Department of Correction Services saw a need for their offenders to take life skill classes. The classes were designed to aid the offenders in the areas of resource management, nutrition, and family life. These three basic need areas being addressed will help the offenders make positive lifestyle changes in their return back to society.

Response:
Three Iowa State University Extension Families Field Specialists team teach a three-hour workshop one Saturday per month addressing the areas of money management (Planning to Stay Ahead curriculum) conducted by Barbara Woods, Ext. Spec. , healthy eating (My Pyramid) conducted by Myra Royal, parenting, and stress management conducted by Beth Fleming. The offenders are encouraged to participate in each of the workshops. They work on group activities and ask questions during presentations.

Impact:
At the workshop, participants are asked to write what they learned and how they plan to apply it after being released from Correctional Center . The family field specialists have completed three workshops. 46 participants have attended in total. An Extension staff member commented : “Using family profiles as learning tools, I was able to observe that through group interaction and open feedback participants were able to use money management information to improve their money management practices.”

Participants shared: “I think your overall class was to the point and very interesting. Thank you.” “I thought the Life Skills class was very beneficial and helpful in continuing to try and lead a new and happier and healthier life and lifestyle.” “I think each teacher was very interesting and had major point of views and facts. They have great skill in teaching and everybody needs someone in their life like that ... it's great spirit.”

Team Members:
Beth Fleming and Barbara Woods

Contact:
Myra Royal
5201 NE 14th St Ste A
Des Moines, IA 50313
515-261-4212
mroyal@iastate.edu