EMERGE

EMERGE offers currently incarcerated mothers the opportunity to make a new start as they transition back into their communities upon release. Participants attend an eight-week, culturally sensitive, trauma informed, reflective parenting workshop, where they learn about the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), the toxic stress that results from them, and the importance of building future resilience for themselves and their children.

Healthy child development, effective parenting skills, positive discipline, identification of feelings, and mindfulness are all covered in the EMERGE curriculum. Participants also receive assistance with pre-employment and employment readiness, as well as a referral to the 20-week Coming Home restorative community re-entry program. Workshops are held once a week at the Westchester County Department of Correction, and the series is offered quarterly.