Windward Community College has made a significant impact by helping inmates gain new skills. On January 30, ten women graduated from the Mental Health Technician Program at the Women’s Community Correctional Center (WCCC). This program is part of Windward’s Puʻuhonua initiative, which collaborates with the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (DCR).
Graduates, like Tiare Kuehnl, expressed immense pride in earning their certificates. “It’s an overwhelming sense of accomplishment,” she shared. The training included courses in psychology, conflict resolution, and abnormal psychology, earning participants college credit that can be transferred toward future education. This program helps inmates build a foundation for successful reintegration into society.
DCR Director Tommy Johnson underscores the importance of this initiative. He stated, “The Mental Health Technician Program provides essential knowledge and job skills to prepare individuals for community reentry.” In Hawaii, there’s a growing need for trained mental health technicians. Organizations like healthcare facilities and assisted care centers are actively seeking skilled workers.
Windward CC Chancellor, Ardis Eschenberg, noted the transformative effect of the program. “Today’s graduates bring hope to our communities. The skills they acquire are vital,” she said. The focus isn’t just on education; it’s about strengthening communities together.
Kuehnl, drawing from her own experiences, plans to continue studying psychology. “I want to help make the community better. It gives me a sense of purpose,” she expressed.
The impact of such programs goes beyond the individual. With recidivism rates in mind, initiatives like these help create a more compassionate and connected society. Research indicates that correctional education can reduce recidivism by up to 43% (source: RAND Corporation). Investing in skills can lead not only to better outcomes for individuals but to healthier communities overall.
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