Addressing the Needs of Children of Offenders: The 4-H LIFE Model

Abstract

<p>4-H LIFE represents a promising approach to addressing the needs of children of offenders and their caregivers. The 4-H Living Interactive Education (LIFE) Program was established in 1999 at the Potosi Correctional Center, a maximum security prison/ 4-H LIFE is an enhanced or therapeutic visitation program with three key components:</p> <p>1) parent engagement</p> <p>2) parent education</p> <p>3) 4-H activities for children of offenders, led by the incarcerated parents.</p> <p>Since inception, 141 youths between the ages of 5 and 18 have participated; 59 incarcerated fathers and 106 caregivers have also been engaged at PCC. Program evaluations suggest that parent-child outcomes improved. In 2005, 4-H LIFE received the Annie E. Casey Foundation Family Strengthening Award.</p>