Interrupting Cycles of Violence is a successful program that the CCR has been offering incarcerated and recently released men and women for over five years. This year adds an additional component that allows for consistent and in-depth interaction with up to 90 residents at Kansas City Release Center (KCRC). These men will be 15 months or less from release.

People who have caused harm often become trapped in cycles of violence that affect their whole lives and the lives of others around them. CCR training and processes are trauma-informed and utilize evidence-based cognitive behavior change elements to improve thoughts, emotions and behavior. The training and Restorative Justice (RJ) processes help participants find positive ways to deal with conflict before it escalates to violence. CCR program evaluation shows that we are successful in interrupting cycles of violence. The project design has three distinct but interconnected interventions:

PART 1 (Existing component): Residents at KCRC will participate in conflict resolution skill building, RJ, and trauma awareness and resilience workshops. Through our partnership with Journey to New Life (JTNL), CCR added a 6 week advanced class following the initial 6 weeks of training. Using activities and concepts gained in graduate level work in RJ and conflict transformation, participants solidify their cognitive change for greater success after incarceration. 

PART 2, (New component): The Kansas City Release Center (KCRC) is partnering with CCR to create a Restorative Reentry Community (RRC) within a housing unit in their facility. The RRC is similar to an Honor Dorm, but increases the focus on human dignity, emotional wellness, skill building and prosocial behavior. Ongoing circles of support will increase positive outcomes. 

An application and interview process will qualify residents for the RRC. A four month curriculum is planned that coordinates other services provided by partner organizations. Additionally, each participant will create a transition plan and participate in a transition circle upon release. Gaps in service and unmet needs will be identified, with the help of a case manager, parole officer and CCR RRC facilitator, and a plan made for wrap-around services to fill the needs. 

This phase continues and expands the staff training in conflict resolution, restorative practices and trauma. The staff will learn how to model and support RJ that will sustain the concept and increase the likelihood of other prisons adopting the model. 

PART 3, (Expanded component): CCR partners with reentry organizations like Journey to New Life, Cherith Brook and Probation and Parole, to engage with formerly incarcerated individuals that struggle with issues that can occur when transitioning from prison to home. Issues of homelessness, joblessness, and familial conflict that can contribute to ongoing trauma, and cycles of violence. CCR facilitators build relationships with participants that can support them during their difficult transition. An existing coalition of support services can be offered as an addition to the conflict resolution skills to increase successful reentry. . .

COMBAT Funding: $77,000.00