CFSS Strengthening Relationships Program

The FY 2016 Second Chance Act Strengthening Relationships Between Young Fathers, Young Mothers, and Their Children provides funding to support the successful transition of young fathers and mothers as they return to their families and communities from detention, out-of-home placement, or incarceration. This program funds coordinated and comprehensive strategies that incorporate (1) mentoring and transitional reentry services proven to reduce recidivism, (2) effective parenting skills development and parent/child relationship engagement for young fathers or mothers, and (3) private and community service partnerships that promote public safety and support added positive outcomes for young parents and their children.

The Center for Self-Sufficiency (CFSS) Strengthening Relationships project will support successful transitions for 40 moderate to high-risk fathers (ages 15–24) who are being released from Racine Youthful Offender Correctional Facility into Milwaukee County. CFSS’s goal is to improve outcomes for young fathers returning to their families and communities by using evidence-based practices to reduce recidivism; support responsible parenting that leads to healthy child development, resiliency, and improved interactions among young fathers, their children and family, and community members; and provide mentoring services that enhance education and employment services. CFSS will work with eight organizations, including Wisconsin Department of Corrections, to establish private and community partnerships that promote public safety and support leading to positive outcomes for young fathers and their children. CA/NCF