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How to Help Advocate

Education is a powerful tool that can transform lives, offering hope and opportunity even in the most challenging circumstances. For incarcerated individuals, pursuing education behind bars can be a pathway to personal growth, improved prospects upon release, and a sense of purpose during their time in prison. As a loved one, you play a crucial role in supporting their educational journey. This blog post explores ways you can encourage and assist your loved one’s education while they are incarcerated and provides resources to help you along the way.

1. Understand the Importance of Education in Prison

Education in prison is more than just a way to pass the time—it can be a lifeline. Studies have shown that inmates who participate in educational programs are less likely to reoffend and more likely to successfully reintegrate into society. Education provides inmates with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to build a better future.

By supporting your loved one’s education, you’re helping them lay the groundwork for a more positive and productive life after release. Whether they’re pursuing a GED, college courses, vocational training, or simply self-study, your encouragement can make a significant difference.

2. Explore Available Educational Programs

The first step in supporting your loved one’s education is to explore the educational opportunities available to them. Many prisons offer a range of programs, from basic literacy courses to higher education opportunities. It’s important to find out what’s available at the facility where your loved one is incarcerated.

Types of Educational Programs:

• GED Programs: Many prisons offer General Educational Development (GED) programs for inmates who didn’t complete high school. Earning a GED can open the door to further educational opportunities and improve job prospects.
• Vocational Training: Vocational programs teach practical skills in areas like carpentry, culinary arts, automotive repair, and more. These skills can be directly applied to jobs after release.
• College Courses: Some prisons partner with colleges and universities to offer inmates the chance to take college-level courses. These may be offered through correspondence or online learning platforms.
• Self-Study and Correspondence Courses: If formal programs are limited, inmates can still pursue self-study through books and correspondence courses. These courses allow inmates to study independently and receive feedback from instructors.

3. Provide Educational Materials

Books and other educational materials are essential tools for learning, and you can help by providing these resources. However, sending books and materials to someone in prison requires careful attention to the facility’s rules and regulations.

Tips for Sending Educational Materials:

• Check the Facility’s Policies: Before sending books or materials, check the prison’s policies on what is allowed. Some prisons have strict guidelines about the content and source of materials, and may require that books be sent directly from approved vendors.
• Choose Educational Topics: Consider sending books that align with your loved one’s educational goals. This could include textbooks, workbooks, or books on topics they’re passionate about.
• Consider Alternative Formats: If traditional books aren’t allowed, look into educational magazines, newsletters, or approved electronic devices that can provide similar content.

4. Encourage Consistent Learning

Consistency is key when it comes to education. Encourage your loved one to dedicate regular time to their studies, even when it’s challenging. Offer your support by discussing what they’re learning, setting goals together, and celebrating their progress.

Ways to Encourage Consistent Learning:

• Set Goals Together: Help your loved one set realistic and achievable educational goals. This could be completing a course, earning a certificate, or reading a certain number of books.
• Celebrate Milestones: Recognize and celebrate your loved one’s achievements, no matter how small. Acknowledge their hard work and the progress they’re making.
• Stay Connected: Stay engaged in their education by discussing what they’re learning during visits, phone calls, or letters. Your interest and support can motivate them to keep going.

5. Advocate for Educational Opportunities

Unfortunately, not all prisons offer robust educational programs, and access can be limited. As a loved one, you can advocate for better educational opportunities by contacting prison administrators, supporting prison education initiatives, and raising awareness about the importance of education in prison.

Ways to Advocate:

• Contact Prison Administration: If your loved one’s facility has limited educational opportunities, consider reaching out to prison administrators to inquire about expanding programs or partnerships with educational institutions.
• Support Prison Education Programs: Many non-profit organizations work to provide educational resources to inmates. Consider supporting these organizations through donations, volunteering, or spreading the word about their work.
• Raise Awareness: Share information about the benefits of prison education with others in your community. Educating the public about the importance of education for incarcerated individuals can help build support for expanding these programs.

Resources for Supporting Education Behind Bars

Below are some resources that can help you and your loved one navigate the education options available in prison:

• Level – Educational Content for People in Prison:
• Offers a variety of educational materials and training programs that can be received via mail, making them accessible even without internet access.
• Available Topics:
  • Meditation and Mindfulness
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Computer Science
• Reentry LifeSkills:
• Programs covering critical skills needed for successful reintegration into society, including:
  • Anger Management
  • Cognitive Awareness
  • Contentious Relationships
  • Driver Responsibility
  • Employment
  • Offender Corrections
  • Parenting
• Criminon
• Education Opportunities via Mail:
• Institutions:
  • Blackstone Career Institute
  • Adams State University
  • Ohio University
  • Indiana University’s Integrated Program in the Education of Adults
• Vocational Opportunities via Mail:
• National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation:
  • Offers certifications like ServSafe Food Handler and ServSafe Manager certifications, which can be pursued via mail (difficult to find times they offer)

Conclusion

Supporting your loved one’s education behind bars is one of the most impactful ways you can help them build a brighter future. By understanding the available programs, providing educational materials, encouraging consistent learning, and advocating for better opportunities, you can make a significant difference in their life. Education is a powerful tool for change, and with your support, your loved one can use it to transform their future, even within the confines of prison walls.

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