Paving the Path to Redemption and Transformation
In 1989, a group of incarcerated individuals came together to create a system that not only addressed the challenges they faced but also transformed their lives and the lives of others. Learn how the Prodigal Sons and Daughters Redirection Services (PSD) used lived experience to develop an innovative approach to the reentry process.
This Opportunity is Open to Motivated Individuals Who Want to Make a Difference!
Prisoner Re-entry Program
Facing the Crisis: The Birth of a Movement
In 1989, a group of prisoners in New Jersey calling themselves the Prodigal Sons and Daughters foresaw a crisis unfolding — rising drug distribution, substance abuse, violent crime, and mass incarceration — with no proven method to combat it. While government and law enforcement pushed “get tough on crime” policies, PSD developed a system rooted in firsthand experience, deeply empathetic to the complex social, ethnic, economic, academic, and legal realities that fuel the crisis.
PSD recognized crime as a social disease, akin to alcohol and drug addiction, deserving psychological and emotional treatment—especially given that three-quarters of incarcerated individuals struggled with related mental or behavioral health challenges.
With little time or support from government bodies, PSD adopted a self-help philosophy, crafting a curriculum and programs tailored to the needs of formerly incarcerated individuals, their families, and the wider community. This resulted in a comprehensive 12-week Life Skills/Mentorship Training Program, Behavioral Health Services, Aftercare Systems, and PSD Industries—all created and operated by former inmates and fraternity members.
Building a Sound Re-entry System
Thirty-five years ago, PSD committed to the belief that a “Core Group” of remorseful, returning citizens could soften social resistance to reentry. The group embraced necessary losses at each qualification stage to set high standards, establishing alternatives to criminal careers.
By 2005, after years of privately funded preparation and testing, PSD had developed a model ready for public presentation. Recognizing society’s hesitation to embrace former offenders, PSD chose collaboration with established organizations to build credibility and reach.
Their lived experience gave them insight beyond traditional life skills and mentorship models. This informed the birth of the 100 Successful Formally Incarcerated Seminar and Workshop,
demonstrating a commitment by returning citizens to break the cycle of recidivism and guide others.
PSD has long fostered an Offender-Led Self-Help System, which provides data and structure to help former offenders transition from prison to empowered, productive lives.
Prodigal Sons and Daughters (PSD) empowers individuals through comprehensive support services, guiding formerly incarcerated men and women toward successful reentry and a brighter future. Join us in making a lasting impact through donations, volunteering, or partnership.
Office Hours
Monday – Friday: 9 AM – 6 PM EST
Saturday – Sunday: Closed
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