What is recidivism?

Inmate recidivism is the rate at which released prisoners re-offend.
Lack of education and employment opportunities are two key factors.

According to the US Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Prisons, inmates who participate in correctional education programs have 43 percent lower odds of returning to prison than those who do not, and that every dollar spent on prison education saves four to five dollars on the costs of re-incarceration.

Why does CCC think they can make a difference?

In 1979, the Center for Correctional Concerns (CCC) was established by Sister Vivian Whitehead O.S.F., a Joliet Franciscan Sister. Through her work with inmates, she quickly realized that a lack of education was a major contributing factor among other situational circumstances for individuals to turn to crime. The work continued by the staff and volunteers at CCC, support the mission of providing educational opportunities including GED classes and testing, substance abuse lessons, trauma and anger management, positive parenting lessons, Bible studies, as well as Chaplaincy and library services. All CCC programs are intended to foster a smooth reentry back into society and strengthen their ability to contribute to their family, work, community and beyond.
We encourage the will to thrive rather than simply survive.

Why is a Parenting class offered to inmates?

Incarceration creates profound challenges for individuals and their families, often leading to cycles of disconnection an instability. Our Parenthood Program directly addresses this critical need by investing in the personal growth of parents, recognizing that their well being is intrinsically linked to the health and future of their children and spouses. By supporting detainees in becoming better versions of themselves, we are actively working to build stronger families and safer communities in Will County and beyond upon the inmates release.