THE STEP UP RE-ENTRY PROGRAM
We guide formerly incarcerated people transitioning into community to lead productive lives.
We create opportunities that increase financial solvency, broaden perspectives, and create a sound reinvestment in the community.
ADDRESSING THE PROBLEM
What we provide
Recidivism is often provoked by a lack of resources, education, and opportunities. Through guidance, support, and key intervention, we aim to reduce recidivism and break the cruel cycle which puts a revolving door on our prisons. Our goal is not to replace or duplicate the welfare system, but instead to provide a helping hand to guide the people in the program to their own successes.
Access to Housing
Stable, affordable housing is difficult to find for anyone with a low income, particularly the formerly incarcerated. Step Up has identified a gap in the Peoria area where we can fulfill this need, refurbishing buildings into homes where people leaving prison can get back on their feet. In some cases, we have even helped members purchase permanent housing.
There is no stronger financial or family investment than providing them a foothold to launch their ambitions and create a better life for themselves and their loved ones.
Economic Mobility
Having a felony record can be a serious obstacle to re-entering the workforce. Step Up intervenes in this frustrating process through connections with reliable and trustworthy employers who are ready to give participants a second chance. We supply a pathway to gainful employment in many fields, as well as training and certification in skills such as working with fiber and steel. With local partnerships, we are able to provide education on essentials of personal finance and responsibility.
After a year of working with us, participants will have a solid understanding of how to budget and save money, reestablish credit, and plan for the future. In this way, they can prevent further financial desperation and begin building toward substantial goals for the future.
Mentorship & Guidance
Step Up is committed to creating a safe space where the young men and women who trust in our care can learn how to live better on “the outside.” We work closely with each participant to hear out their troubles and their stories, and guide them towards rectifying mistakes and making better choices. If they are parents and/or struggle with addiction, we are also prepared to provide mentorship focusing on these topics. Above all, our approach is designed to show participants how they can be their best selves and put their record in the past.
Spiritual Development
For us, mentorship and spiritual development go hand in hand. If a participant is receptive, we show them how they can be a disciple of God and carry out good work on earth by following his lessons. All religious aspects of our services are optional. If a participant isn’t prepared to let God into their life, we respect that. However, the love of living with God is a central part of our philosophy and we feel our work is more effective when this aspect can be incorporated into mentorship.
A byproduct of success
When our members begin to realize their own dreams, it broadens the perspectives of onlookers, and reduces the stigma attached to those who have gained freedom from incarceration.
Testimonials
Donald Shaw, Step Up member
“Step Up has given me ambition to go beyond minimum wage and find real success on the outside. I’ve found the financial resources and education especially helpful and I’ve learned a lot. Their programs are really what this community needs”
“I’m very happy with what Step UP UFM has been able to provide me. It’s not just a work release program, I’m learning how to find a positive direction in my personal life and live with God leading the way. The structure this program has given my life feels like a good support system, and a place to start living properly.”
— Richard Rodgers, Step Up member
“Other programs I’ve been in felt like they were built to judge others. Step Up UFM is different. It’s uplifting, and it shows me how to push forward and help others. I’ve loved learning how to cook and really enjoy a home-cooked meal after years of terrible food. I had been locked up since I was 16, so technology has changed a lot. Step Up UFM has shown me how to use modern tech and take better care of my finances, while also getting life tools in a supportive church environment.”
— Ruben Alvarez, Step Up member
“Step Up has a genuine desire to see formerly incarcerated men become successful. In my years of working with this program, they never give up and they never turn people away. They place a focus on the humanity of the participants, showing them how to change their narratives, and their lives, for the better. I am so pleased to be a partner in the positive influence that Step Up UFM provides this community.”
— Ryan Hobson, Crisis Counselor
