Best Reintegration & Rehab Programs in Solano County

1. lntroduction to Katargeo

Katargeo is a rehabilitation progmm designed to assist incarcerated individuals in their joumey towards successful reentry into society. The name "Katargeo" is derived from Greek, meaning "to put away the things that bind you." This concept is central to the program's philosophy, encouraging participants to shed detrimental behaviors and thought patterns.

Key Points:

- Origin: Developed by Louis Wight, who worked at San Quentin State Prison for 19 years

- Primary Goal: Reduce recidivism rates among parolees and inmates

- Approach: Utilizes group therapy and individual counseling to address life issues afiecling inmates both inside and outside prison

2. History and Development

Katargeo has evolved since its inception, expanding its reach and refining its methods:

San Quentin State Prison (1992-2008):

- Originated as a demonstration project in collaboration with Califomia State University, Sonoma

- Became the "longest running in-house rehab program" at San Quentin

- Ofiered group therapy tgboth maximum and minimum security yards

Parole And Community Team (PACT) (200a-2008):

- Expanded to serve parolees in multiple counties including Richmond, Concord, Vallejo, Fairfield, and Lake County

- Collaborated with Social Services to support recently released parolees

- Ofiered outpatient alcohol and drug programs, including services for Prop 36 participants

Califomia State Prison at Solano (201U2023):

- Partnered with Human PotentialConsultants, LLC

- Operated in two buildings: one for drug counseling, another for self-help programs

- Trained inmate drug counselors to assist in program facilitation

Califomia Medical Facility:

- lntroduced the Katargeo/Going Home Program

- Ofiered therapy in both English and Spanish

- Expanded to include specialized groups such as Fathers Group and Prison Maniage Class

3. Program Structure

Katargeo employs a comprehensive approach to rehabilitation:

Group Therapy Approach:

- Facilitates open discussion of personal experiences and challenges

- Encourages peer support and accountability.

"Going Home" Curriculum:

- 15-session intensive training program

- Covers a wide range of topics essential for successful reentry

- Requires active participation and commitment from attendees

Key Topics Covered:

1. Communication and listening skills
2. Self-awareness and personal growth
3. Emotional literacy and management
4. Relapse prevention
5. Anger management and impulse control
6. Understanding and breaking cycles of victimization
7. Addressing domestic violence
8. Family dynamics and roles
9. Spirituality and personal beliefs
10. Interpersonal relationships
11. Gender differences and communication
12. Forgiveness and moving forward
13. Practical planning for release
14. Goal setting and achievement

4. Impact and Effectiveness

Katargeo has demonstrated significant positive outcomes:

Recidivism Rate Reduction:

- A sample study of 118 inmates over five years showed 71% either successfully paroled or were discharged from parole

- Comparison studies showed dramatically lower recidivism rates for program participants

Participant Testimonials:

- Inmates report improved self-awareness, emotional growth, and better coping skills

- Many describe the program as a crucial support system and a source of personal transformation

Research Findings:

- A Master of Social Work thesis evaluationconcluded that Katargeo was successful in meeting its goals

- The program aligns with research showing that in-prison substance abuse treatment, combined with aftercare, leads to significant reductions in recidivism

5. Challenges in Prisoner Reentry

Katargeo addresses the multihceted challenges faced by formerly incarcerated individuats:

Common Baniers:

- Limited access to education and job opportunilies

- lneligibility for certain public benefits and housing

- Restrictions on voting rights

- Stigma and social reintegration dfficulties 

Health and Skills Challenges:

- Low levels of educational or vocational skills

- Mental health needs

- Substance abuse histories

- High rates of communicable diseases

Recidivism Statistics:

- Within one year of release, 56.7% of released prisoners are rearrested

- Within three years, this increases to 67.8%

- By five years post-release.76.6% have been rearrested

6. Future Directions and Goals

Katargeo continues to evolve to meet the changing needs of the incarcerated population:

- Expansion of services to more conectional facilities

- Development of additional specialized programs (e.g., for specific offender types or age groups)

- Enhanced integration with community-based services for smoother transitions

- lncreased focus on vocational training and job placement assistance

- Ongoing program evaluation and refinement based on the latest research in criminaljustice and rehabilitation

By addressing these key areas, Katargeo aims to continue its mission of reducing recidivism and facilitating successful reintegration into society for formerly incarcerated individuals