This program is comprised of volunteers who want to make a difference and believe people can change. Victim Impact classes, taught at the jail, help inmates identify the impact of their behavior on others, themselves, family, friends, and the community. Class curriculum includes use of speakers, documentary DVD and discussion with emphasis on accountability and change. The goal is to establish a rich learning environment which incorporates relevant curriculum materials, adult-centered learning principles, experiential learning opportunities, cultural sensitivity, and activities to facilitate changes in offenders’ thinking, feeling, and behaviors.
Program Objectives
- Increase offender accountability for criminal actions,
- Increase offenders’ empathy for victims and community affected by their actions,
- Help offenders identify who else is affected by their crime (ripple effect),
- Instill in offenders’ self-motivation to live crime free,
- Provide a forum for victims for share their stories and influence offender behavior.