In-Prison Program
In February, RISE launched a pilot in‑unit program at the Nebraska State Penitentiary where program participants live together in an intentional learning community while attending classes five days a week. Those selected to participate in the “RISE Academy” live in a 40‑bed wing of a housing unit along with a handful of previous graduates serving as peer facilitators.
The program serves individuals living in Housing Unit 2—a unit of individuals at a higher security level. They historically have less access to programming and have higher needs when returning to our communities.
Using evidence‑based program interventions, RISE’s pilot program had a significant impact, including a 50% reduction in the frequency and severity of misconduct reports during the program period. Thanks to the work of our Program Associate Bryan Dahlberg and our team of peer facilitators, RISE is making a significant impact by challenging participants to shift mindsets, resolve problems without violence, communicate effectively, and stay focused on goals for the future.
Meeting more frequently opened the door for opportunities to participate in supplementary coursework, including an eight‑week creative writing and poetry workshop facilitated by the Nebraska Writers Collective called “Writers’ Block.” This program provides a creative avenue for participants to process and heal as they work through the pivotal character development portions of the RISE curriculum. RISE also partners with Lutheran Family Services on a 12‑week “Nurturing Fathers” course which provides additional tools for healthy parenting.
“Before RISE I lacked confidence and had never applied myself or put much effort into anything because I hadn't believed in my ability to do well or succeed. The RISE staff, volunteers, and peer facilitators changed that for me.” – RISE Graduate
In addition to launching new programs, 2022 was a year of growth for the in‑prison team. We welcomed three new program associates, each of them bringing over 20 years of experience in their respective fields of recovery support and business management.
In March, Ali Schwanebeck joined RISE along with Dr. Tommy Moore, followed by Heather Austin in August. We are thrilled to welcome Ali, Tommy, and Heather to our team. They each bring unique perspectives and gifts and have quickly built trust and rapport with our participants and the facilities where they serve. This year we graduated 5 classes from four facilities and held two community graduations for those who completed the coursework while living in the community.
“RISE has allowed me to grow in areas that I once lacked: confidence, dealing with challenges, and education. It has given me a sense of hope and a set of skills mentally and emotionally. For the last six months I went from giving up on myself to having a purpose in life. Through all my ups and downs, RISE gave me a reason to believe in myself.” – RISE Graduate
How RISE is Building a Reentry Program that Works
Reentry assistance program: RISE’s curriculum is designed to equip ex‑prisoners with the skills they need to thrive after release—education, job readiness, and life skills training that mirror the challenges they’ll face outside.[2]
Reentry housing: For those who finish the program, we help connect them with housing reentry programs and second‑chance housing programs to reduce the risk of homelessness.
Reentry services near me: Our partners in Nebraska—such as the Nebraska Writers Collective and Lutheran Family Services—provide reentry services nearby for inmates who need counseling, community support, and continued learning after release.[3]
Reentering society: RISE’s success metrics, including the 50% misconduct reduction, underscore our commitment to reentering society safely and productively.
The Bigger Picture
Prison education programs: The RISE Academy incorporates rigorous in‑prison education courses that align with state standards, preparing inmates for college and vocational certifications.[1]
Post‑release rehab: Our curriculum includes post‑release rehab modules that teach coping strategies, mental health management, and relapse prevention.
Life skills: We emphasize reentry life skills—budgeting, communication, and conflict resolution—to empower participants to rebuild their lives.
Jobs after prison: RISE partners with local employers to provide jobs after prison, ensuring that participants can secure stable employment upon release.
Family & community support: We offer programs for families of incarcerated individuals and run community reentry programs that foster connection, understanding, and support for both the ex‑prisoner and their loved ones.
Advocacy & rights: RISE collaborates with prisoner advocacy groups and supports prison reform initiatives, ensuring that the systemic barriers to reentry are addressed.
Stay Connected
If you’re looking for a reentry program that delivers real results, or if you’d like to volunteer in an in‑prison setting, contact RISE today. Together, we can create a brighter future for those reentering society and the communities they’ll become a part of.
