Established in December 2009 by Friends Outside, the Friends and Family Neighborhood Center (FFNC) in Stockton, California, stands as a beacon of hope for individuals transitioning from incarceration and their families. This vital center is meticulously designed to offer comprehensive pre- and post-release services, acting as a model for successful community reintegration.
The Friends And Family Center employs a strengths-based, family-centered approach to treatment, with the core objectives of fostering:
- Enhanced successful reintegration into community life
- Stronger family reunification outcomes
- Reduced rates of recidivism
Programs Offered at the Friends and Family Center:
The dedicated team at Friends Outside provides essential reentry support services to eligible individuals at the Friends and Family Center. These services encompass case management, facilitated educational and support groups, employment readiness programs, and assistance with housing and basic needs. Recognizing that individual needs may extend beyond the Center’s direct offerings, the staff also facilitates referrals to a network of trusted community support services. Family members are also encouraged to explore and benefit from additional programs provided by Friends Outside. The initial step to accessing these resources is to schedule an intake assessment. Contact us today at (209) 955-0701 to discuss how the Friends and Family Center can assist you and your loved ones.
Comprehensive Case Management and Mentoring
Upon initial assessment, the Friends and Family Center’s skilled staff collaborates with individuals to streamline the reentry process, developing personalized plans for success. These dedicated professionals guide clients through the fundamental aspects of rebuilding their lives. Case management plans are tailored to address critical areas such as:
- Securing Employment opportunities
- Pursuing GED attainment and further Education
- Finding Housing and accessing rental assistance
- Meeting Basic needs
- Ensuring Parole/Probation compliance
- Strengthening Family unity
- Maintaining Sobriety support
- Gaining access to Health and mental health care
- Developing Anger Management skills
- Connecting to other beneficial programs through referrals
- Addressing Warrant reduction efforts
- And other specific concerns identified by each client
Job Readiness and Employment Skills Training
The Friends and Family Center provides crucial employment readiness services, concentrating on building essential job-seeking and workplace skills. This free program is open to all community members who have experienced incarceration at any point in their lives, recognizing the unique challenges they face in the job market.
The program addresses common employment hurdles and offers specialized support for individuals with a criminal record. Services include guidance and assistance with:
- Crafting effective Resumes
- Conducting strategic Job searches
- Practicing Mock interviews
- Articulating and explaining one’s record to potential employers
- Effectively Communicating workplace needs
- Completing job Applications accurately
- Referrals to specialized vocational training programs
- Skill-building workshops to enhance employability
Educational and Peer Support Groups
The Friends and Family Center facilitates a range of educational and support groups for individuals engaged in case management and, in many instances, extends these valuable resources to anyone in the community seeking support. These groups, typically ranging from 3 to 20 participants, are led by trained professionals and are available both in-person and online. Groups may operate on an ongoing basis or follow structured calendar cycles. Topics covered include:
- Anger Management techniques
- Conflict resolution strategies
- Effective Parenting skills
- Sustaining Sobriety support
- Managing co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders (Dual Diagnosis)
- Building Financial literacy
- Providing Support during a loved one’s incarceration
Family and Children Support Programs
Friends Outside understands the vital importance of connection for incarcerated individuals, both within and beyond prison walls. Maintaining these connections positively impacts the well-being of both incarcerated individuals and their families. Successful societal reentry is also significantly enhanced by strong community support networks.
The support programs for children and families at the Friends and Family Center are designed to address the distinct challenges that arise when a family member is incarcerated and during the crucial period when that individual returns home. This support may encompass:
- Providing Education about the justice system and strategies for maintaining family connections
- Offering Information and referral services to relevant resources
- Facilitating Topic-specific support groups for families
- Integrating family support into the Case management plans of their loved ones, recognizing the family as an integral part of the reentry journey.
