Since 1995, the number of male state and federal inmates has grown 24 percent, reaching 1.3 million inmates. The largest growth in inmate population has been among violent offenders. Over the last decade the number of violent offenders grew to almost 300,000 or 53% of the total inmate population for this time period. Inmates sentenced for drug offenses constituted the largest group of federal inmates or approximately 57%. Add to this, the number held for weapons offenses and these statistics drastically increase to approximately 247%. These statistics highlight the need to address the recidivism rate of inmate population throughout the state of Texas. Most have programs in place inside of their facilities, but once released many return to prison because of the inability of programs to aid them in their quest to become productive citizens on the outside.
Dido 1 Foundation, Inc. is a 501 (c) 3 corporation developed to assist inmates in gaining education, training, counseling, but most of all purpose to reenter society and become productive citizens. Dido 1 Foundation Inc. addresses basic needs like food, clothing and shelter, giving inmates dignity in life. Once basic needs are met counseling, training and education are introduced. All participates are required to meet strict screening guidelines to participate in the program. Services target those who are mentally sound and physically capable of making positive changes in their lives regardless of their background. Eligibility for the program includes referral by other service providers, case managers, along with the prison system/probation department. Although a limited number of full time housing is available, everyone referred to the program, who successfully complete the screening process can participate in the counseling, education and training components. These services will be provided during normal business hours, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and on designated evenings for group counseling. Inmates who are approved to live on site will participate in these services and have interim housing for a minimum of 90 days to a maximum of 1 year, based on need and a first come, first serve basis.
Dido 1 Foundations main goal is to cut significantly, or bring recidivism rates to zero. Being a non-profit organization these goals can only be reached through fundraisers, donations, and grants. The re-arrest rates for former felons within three years of release is close to 67.5%. The numbers can be significanly reduced through education and counseling. In the end it will cost tax payers less money to incarcerate inmates and dramatically reduce crime rates. Our goal is very simple and easily attainable. Statics have proven that more prison's and jails are not correcting the direction our country is headed in. Now, is the time for change and that is where Dido 1 fits in. We want to change former inmates lives and make them productive members of society once again. We will be able to do this by taking away the lure of committing crime. We believe tha
t financial freedom plays a major part in why certain crimes are committed. Through our program we will be able to point our members in the right direction with the basic tools needed to be financially independent and how budgeting can greatly improve their status and wealth.