THATCHER — The next step in the battle against substance abuse and addiction is getting ready to start and it’s called the Graham County New Hope Re-entry Project.
“The Re-entry Project is a project that, when individuals are getting released from jails and prisons, they have an opportunity to be matched up with a mentor,” said Ken Gowin, director of the project for Graham County Substance Abuse Coalition.
Mentors will help those who have served their time or out on parole with getting identification and/or driver’s licenses, finding a place to live and helping those men and women seek employment.
The mentor will serve in a one-on-one capacity — one mentor to each person re-entering society —help those battling addiction find the appropriate counseling and support programs, and be available for emotional support when called.
The 2018 Arizona Town Hall on Criminal Justice found it costs $24,300 per year to incarcerate one person — or $66 per day — compared to $3,400 — or $9 per day — to supervise that person outside of prison.
The Graham County New Hope Re-entry Project is based on the Yavapai Re-entry Project, which was formed in 2011. The Yavapai program cites a study that reports those who leave jail or prison and work with a coach are 40 percent less likely to re-offend and go back to prison.
Graham County New Hope Re-entry Project is currently seeking volunteers to serve as mentors. To obtain an application call 928-250-8396 or e-mail ken@gcsac.com.
