RAPID CITY, S.D. (KELO) — People who find themselves behind bars in Pennington County, are finding extra help turning their lives around.
Pennington County is looking to reduce the return rate for people who are incarcerated.
The Ignite Program works with those jailed for non-violent crimes.
“So the purpose of Ignite is to end generational incarceration and to help with reentry services. A lot of time, services are cut off immediately when they leave the facility. We’re hoping this is going to be that middle ground as far as, yes you’re still in the custody of the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office but these are the opportunities that we can provide to you to help with reentry,” Ignite Coordinator Jessica Afrank said.
Ignite first started in Michigan. A study on the program there showed that one month of Ignite reduces misconduct by 49%.
“Well, the programming is really good. We did some credit counseling and some stuff for home ownership. That’s stuff I never knew about before,” Ignite Participant Donavan Brown Eyes said.
The Ignite Program offers real-life skills with classroom work, as well as offering up opportunities to earn one’s GED. As well as getting into the community and cleaning up some areas in giving back.
Scull Construction, G J Holsworth and Son, Loyal Plumbing, Liv Hospitality and Forest Product Distributors have joined on as partnered employers.
“So the Sheriff’s Office is super excited to partner with these five local businesses that all provide great benefits, they pay very well and they also are willing to work with these types of participants,” Afrank said.
“It’s good to maybe have a job you know, walking out the door. Getting our vital documents and all that stuff, that’s a big help. It’s a big hurdle to overcome,” Brown Eyes said.
Currently, the work program can have up to 17 participants at a time.
People who successfully complete the program could also qualify for a reduction in their time behind bars.
