The biblical name “Exodus” serves as a perfect metaphor for how we view the reentry process. In the Bible, when the Hebrews fled slavery in Egypt, many thought that their release from bondage was the end of their difficult journey. Yet instead of finding themselves in the land of milk and honey, they had to wander through the desert for 40 years before reaching the Promised Land. Likewise, many incarcerated individuals believe that once they leave their state of bondage, their problems are over. Yet in truth, like the ancient Hebrews, they will more likely be wandering in their own wilderness – struggling with financial, family, and social issues – before they reach the promised land of full reintegration into mainstream society. The Exodus Model is designed to provide the support formerly incarcerated individuals need to work through their own wilderness. The basis of this model is what we call The Exodus Contract.
Exodus Contract
The Exodus service model is based on the understanding that success in different areas of our participant's lives is interconnected. Family problems affect work while more education increases self-esteem and influences family live. The Exodus Contract is a process that helps participants achieve their goals in different areas of their lives by creating a concrete plan for success. Each of the six pages in the contract represents an area of importance (e.g. employment, education, family, spirituality, health/physical fitness, community service.)
During our initial five-day orientation, participants work to develop goals in every category. Since a goal without a plan is only a dream, we also work with participants to list concrete steps necessary to complete each objective. By completing this process in multiple categories, participants create a concrete plan to transform their lives.
Following a plan is critical to avoid repeating the activities that resulted in an individual's incarceration. With the many obstacles society places in front of formerly incarcerated individuals, absent a plan for success, it can be easy to lose hope a condition that all too often leads back to prison. Alternatively, as a participant begins to implement their plan, the vision of a brighter future becomes clearer with every step. This exercise helps individuals see that achieving the life they want is within their control; if they are willing to do the work necessary for success.
Upon enrollment in the program, participants are matched with an Exodus Contract Coach, who works with them for up to a full year to help them develop and revise their plans. The verynature of the Exodus Contract helps the Contract Coach to connect with participants as they quickly develop a picture of the multifaceted issues in participants' lives as well as how they envision their path forward.
