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Reducing Recidivism through Vocational Training

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Reducing Recidivism through Vocational Training

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A 2019 report by the United States Sentencing Commission found that more than 60 percent of federal prisoners jailed for violent crimes were arrested again within eight years after their release; in the same period, 40 percent of those arrested for nonviolent crimes were rearrested. This phenomenon of re-entering the justice system after serving time is known as recidivism.

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A 2019 report by the United States Sentencing Commission found that more than 60 percent of federal prisoners jailed for violent crimes were arrested again within eight years after their release; in the same period, 40 percent of those arrested for nonviolent crimes were rearrested. This phenomenon of re-entering the justice system after serving time is known as recidivism.

High recidivism rates indicate that prisoers are not being properly rehabilitated while incarcerated, nor provided with enough support after release. Recidivism can prove costly: in 2017, incarceration cost more than $35,000 per person per year, on average. Additionally, state and local economies lose revenue, since incarcerated citizens do not pay taxes or purchase goods. Without effective rehabilitation programs and access to education, individuals who spend years incarcerated may never have an opportunity to participate in society.

Many of the obstacles that result in people being incarcerated also make it more likely that they will remain in the system. Many incarcerated individuals already lack educational attainment or vocational skills. People in the criminal justice system earn college degrees at half the rate of the general American population. Further, more than 40 percent of incarcerated individuals did not complete high school.

Mental health issues, low literacy and numeracy levels, and little previous employment experience are also prevalent among people in prison. All of these factors can prevent individuals from finding work, even before incarceration. As individuals with criminal records frequently face stigma from employers after release, securing work becomes nearly impossible. While most would enroll in education or workforce development programs if given the opportunity, many correctional facilities do not offer these programs.

Vocational training is one of the most effective ways of reducing recidivism. These programs may be offered inside or outside of the prison system. Vocational training programs often teach workforce readiness skills alongside technical training. Participants can also earn their high school diploma or GED while incarcerated.

Vocational training programs increase the likelihood of employment following release. Many of these programs have strict behavior requirements and can prepare individuals to meet an employer's expectations. Program graduates may earn a certificate that demonstrates to employers that they possess the technical and soft skills needed to succeed on the job. Moreover, some programs may qualify individuals for apprenticeships or job opportunities upon release.

The possibility of employment can motivate individuals to re-enter society, as they can look forward to securing work and supporting themselves financially. Employment can also serve as a stabilizing force that encourages individuals to avoid repeating patterns that previously led to incarceration.

One example of a successful vocational training program is EDWINS Leadership & Restaurant Institute, based in Cleveland, Ohio. Founded in 2007, the institute trains recently released individuals in fine dining and hospitality. In addition to providing education and hands-on experience, EDWINS connects participants to housing, medical care, and other forms of practical assistance. This wrap-around approach helps to ensure that participants will be able to rebuild their lives at the program's conclusion.

The EDWINS Leadership & Restaurant Institute opened a 20,000-square-foot facility in 2013 and graduates more than 100 individuals per year. More than 99 percent of graduates never return to prison.

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Reducing Recidivism through Vocational Training

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A 2019 report by the United States Sentencing Commission found that more than 60 percent of federal prisoners jailed for violent crimes were arrested again within eight years after their release; in the same period, 40 percent of those arrested for nonviolent crimes were rearrested.

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Golf enthusiasts visiting or living in Tennessee owe it to themselves to play at one of the state’s finest courses, the Honors Course in Ooltewah. Ranked by GolfDigest as the №1 course in the state for the 2021–2022 season (defending its position from the previous year), the course was developed by Pete Dye in 1983. Also ranked among the top 30 courses in the nation, the course has been a mainstay on the GolfDigest 100 Greatest list since 1987, with a peak of №21 in 1987–1988. It was the №28 ranked course in the United States for the 2020–2021 season.

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Golf enthusiasts visiting or living in Tennessee owe it to themselves to play at one of the state's inest courses, the Honors Course in Ooltewah. Ranked by GolfDigest as the №1 course in the state for the 2021-2022 season (defending its position from the previous year), the course was developed by Pete Dye in 1983. Also ranked among the top 30 courses in the nation, the course has been a mainstay on the GolfDigest 100 Greatest list since 1987, with a peak of №21 in 1987-1988. It was the №28 ranked course in the United States for the 2020-2021 season.

At the time of the course's public opening, it was considered fairly radical in its design. The roughs consisted of tall, native grass, the fairways were laid with durable Zoysiagrass, and several greens were placed precariously atop towering outcroppings of rock. Today, the course stands as one of the best examples of Dye's "death-or-glory" design philosophy. It is also one of Dye's most well-preserved courses, benefiting from minor contour work in the 1990s and bunkering adjustments in 2008, but otherwise remaining true to his original vision. That said, visitors to the Honors Course will be able to take advantage of a new practice facility located on site. Completed in 2015, the facility was designed by architect Bill Bergin.

The state of Tennessee also features two Second 100 Greatest entrants: the course at the Golf Club of Tennessee in Kingston Springs and Spring Creek Ranch Golf Club course in Collierville, ranked №167 and №168 in the country, respectively. This past season, the Golf Club of Tennessee overtook Spring Creek Ranch as the №2 course in the state.

The course at the Golf Club of Tennessee, located just west of Nashville, was designed by Tom Fazio in 1991 as a sprawling course routed over more than 300 acres. The 18 holes weave through heavy forest, race alongside river valleys, and climb over rocky ridges. Notable holes include a par 3, 200-yard drive over a river chasm and a par 4 that requires golfers to hit directly alongside the rocky chasm wall. The course made its Second 100 Greatest debut in 2017.

The course at Spring Creek Ranch Golf Club, meanwhile, is a Jack Nicklaus design from 2000. Like many courses developed during this time period, Spring Creek was built on a ranch property and allowed the existing land to determine the nature and direction of each hole. Located east of Memphis, the course represents an important step in Nicklaus' design career as he transitioned away from courses that demanded pure shot-making ability to a more well-rounded approach. Spring Creek allows golfers to demonstrate a diverse skill set as they dodge ponds, pass through woodlands, and attempt to drive a double fairway par 5 that occupies 20 acres of land all on its own.

Troubadour Golf and Field Club in College Grove made its debut as the №4 ranked course in Tennessee. Other top-ranked golf destinations include the courses at Belle Meade Country Club in Nashville and Knoxville's Holston Hills Country Club.

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Golf enthusiasts visiting or living in Tennessee owe it to themselves to play at one of the state's inest courses, the Honors Course in Ooltewah. Ranked by GolfDigest as the №1 course in the state for the 2021-2022 season (defending its position from the previous year), the course was developed by Pete Dye in 1983.

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A Look at the Link between Oral and General Health

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A Look at the Link between Oral and General Health

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For decades, doctors, dentists, and researchers have focused on the connection between oral and general health, and today, most agree that oral health care is a vital component of overall health. In fact, the American Dental Association has called the mouth “a window into the health of the body,” due to its ability to indicate general infection and nutritional deficiency. Often, systemic diseases, such as AIDS, diabetes, high blood pressure, and Sjögren’s syndrome, first present with mouth lesions and similar oral problems. This does not indicate that oral disease causes systemic conditions, or that systemic diseases cause oral problems, but suggests a strong correlation between the two.

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For decades, doctors, dentists, and researchers have focused on the connection between oral and geneal health, and today, most agree that oral health care is a vital component of overall health. In fact, the American Dental Association has called the mouth "a window into the health of the body," due to its ability to indicate general infection and nutritional deficiency. Often, systemic diseases, such as AIDS, diabetes, high blood pressure, and Sjögren's syndrome, first present with mouth lesions and similar oral problems. This does not indicate that oral disease causes systemic conditions, or that systemic diseases cause oral problems, but suggests a strong correlation between the two.

Like other parts of the body, the mouth is full of bacteria. While oral hygiene centered on brushing and flossing usually keeps bacteria under control, sometimes bacteria accumulate in a way that leads to gum disease or tooth decay. For example, a person taking a decongestant might experience a reduction in saliva, which otherwise would neutralize acid and wash away food particles in order to protect the body from microbes. In this case, excessive bacteria can enter the body's respiratory and digestive tracts, leading to systemic health problems.

Some studies suggest that when oral bacteria cause periodontitis (severe gum disease), the associated inflammation can contribute to heart disease. Poor oral health might contribute to conditions such as endocarditis, an infection of the endocardium, the inner lining of the heart's valves or chambers. This occurs when bacteria from the mouth enter the bloodstream and eventually attach to the heart.

Similarly, broader cardiovascular problems have been linked to oral bacteria. While the relationship between cardiovascular disease and oral health is not precisely understood, evidence indicates that clogged arteries and stroke might be influenced by the inflammation caused by oral disease. When specific bacteria are not washed from the mouth, but are instead pulled into the lungs, pneumonia and other respiratory diseases can result.

A number of systemic diseases have been shown to affect oral health. Because osteoporosis weakens the bones and can cause tooth loss, patients with this condition are at greater risk for oral problems. Diabetes reduces the body's ability to fight infection, which leads to more frequent and more severe gum disease among individuals with diabetes. Additionally, autoimmune diseases such as HIV/AIDS often cause painful mucosal lesions.

Other patient populations that should pay careful attention to oral health include pregnant women and those trying to become pregnant, as fluctuating hormones can exacerbate problems with the teeth or gums. Poor oral hygiene has even been linked to dementia and Alzheimer's disease, as the bacterium porphyromonas gingivalis can travel through the nerves connected to the brain and destroy nerve cells.

To protect against broad health concerns, individuals should brush their teeth with a soft-bristled brush at least twice daily, and floss at least once daily. Mouthwash or even water can help remove food particles after eating, while a healthy diet with little added sugar can help prevent food particles from remaining in the teeth. To stay abreast of changes in mouth conditions, people should visit their dentist for a full exam and cleaning every six months.

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A Look at the Link between Oral and General Health

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For decades, doctors, dentists, and researchers have focused on the connection between oral and geneal health, and today, most agree that oral health care is a vital component of overall health. In fact, the American Dental Association has called the mouth "a window into the health of the body," due to its ability to indicate general infection and nutritional deficiency.

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EDWINS Leadership and Restaurant Institute Provides Chance for Success

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EDWINS Leadership and Restaurant Institute Provides Chance for Success

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An innovative charitable organization based in Cleveland, Ohio, EDWINS Leadership & Restaurant Institute provides valuable culinary training for adults who are formerly incarcerated. The institute aims to empower individuals by equipping them with a skilled, in-demand trade, as well as to support them in their transition to life outside prison.

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An innovative charitable organization based in Cleveland, Ohio, EDWINS Leadership & Restaurant Institute provides valuable culinary training for adults who are formerly incarcerated. The institute aims to empower individuals by equipping them with a skilled, in-demand trade, as well as to support them in their transition to life outside prison.

Established in 2007, EDWINS operates on the princile that every human being deserves an opportunity for a fair future. After beginning to teach at the Grafton Correctional Institution in 2011, the organization opened its flagship restaurant on November 1, 2013. It currently graduates approximately 100 individuals from the program each year.

When individuals are released from prison, they often have few resources and no support system, which can lead to issues such as homelessness, unemployment, and reincarceration. EDWIN offers former inmates life skills training and emotional support during the transition from prison to community, equipping them with the know-how they need to succeed. All training, including uniforms, supplies, and books, are provided free of charge. While individuals must be at least 18, there is no minimum education level or past job experience requirement.

The first step to program placement is to fill out an application, followed by an interview for eligible candidates. Candidates are not asked to disclose any information about their criminal background; they need only display a commitment to punctuality, respect, sobriety, and hard work. Once accepted, students begin the EDWINS Culinary and Hospitality program, which comprises 900 hours of training to prepare them for successful work in a restaurant environment.

Students gain a foundational understanding of food and the hospitality industry through an introductory gastronomy course, followed by a culinary math course that teaches them to calculate recipe costs and yield percentages. Students also learn the basics of nutrition, knife skills, and proper equipment storage.

To ensure students understand the importance of sanitation and hygiene in a restaurant environment, they undergo ServSafe training that outlines principles of safe food handling.
Later in the program, students receive training in entrepreneurship and management in order to qualify them for more advanced positions in the hospitality industry. At this point, students are assigned a mentor to help them choose a career direction by exposing them to various employment options. Under the guidance of their mentor, students reflect upon professional goals and create an individual business plan.

In their final class, students work at an approved restaurant, putting their classroom knowledge to use in a hands-on environment. As part of the course, students must keep a detailed notebook to submit as their final examination.

To better facilitate training and support for students, EDWIN constructed a 20,000-square-foot campus in 2016. There, students can benefit from free housing and amenities such as a library, gm, and basketball court to help them thrive.

EDWINS has recently gained media attention for its work in the Cleveland community. Featured in the Oscar-nominated short documentary Knife Skills, directed by Thomas Lennon, EDWINS restaurant was recognized by the New York Times for its "high-stakes haute cuisine" and received a Cleveland Magazine Silver Spoon Award for Best French Restaurant. The restaurant has also been featured in the Washington Post, Forbes, and Food and Wine.

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EDWINS Leadership and Restaurant Institute Provides Chance for Success

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An innovative charitable organization based in Cleveland, Ohio, EDWINS Leadership & Restaurant Institute provides valuable culinary training for adults who are formerly incarcerated. The institute aims to empower individuals by equipping them with a skilled, in-demand trade, as well as to support them in their transition to life outside prison.

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A doctor of dental surgery (DDS) from Meharry School of Dentistry, Dr. Warren Melamed has extensive dentistry and oral health knowledge. He founded Embassy Dental in Nashville, Tennessee, in 2005, and currently, Dr. Warren Melamed offers a six-hour presentation to Dental Resident seminars at Meharry School of Dentistry. He also supports various local organizations educating them about oral cancer.

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A doctor of dental surgery (DDS) from Meharry School of Dentistry, Dr. Warren Melamed has extensive dentistry and oral health knowledge. He founded Embassy Dental in Nashville, Tennessee, in 2005, and currently, Dr. Warren Melamed offers a six-hour presentation to Dental Resident seminars at Meharry School of Dentistry. He also supports various local organizations educating them about oral cancer.

Considered one of the top three cancers, ral cancer develops in any part of the mouth. Because regular screening leads to early detection, hence increasing treatment success rates, oral cancer prevention is possible. Below are some ways that can help in the prevention of oral cancer.

1. Good oral hygiene is one way of preventing oral cancer. Regular brushing and flossing can stop germs and infections from breeding in the mouth. Infections such as Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) are a significant cause of oral cancers. As such, keeping the mouth clean and healthy can help boost the overall immune system in the fight against potential cancers.

2. Tobacco is the number one cause of oral cancer. Therefore, avoiding tobacco such as cigarettes, pipes, and cigars can also help prevent oral cancer. In addition, excessive alcohol consumption should be avoided.

3. A self-examination at least once every month and regular visits to a dentist (at least twice a year) is another way to prevent oral cancer. Scheduling regular consultations with a dentist is paramount.

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A doctor of dental surgery (DDS) from Meharry School of Dentistry, Dr. Warren Melamed has extensive dentistry and oral health knowledge. He founded Embassy Dental in Nashville, Tennessee, in 2005, and currently, Dr. Warren Melamed offers a six-hour presentation to Dental Resident seminars at Meharry School of Dentistry.