Mentoring Children of Prisoners
The Mentoring Children of Prisoners (MCP) program is a special extension of our Community Based program, developed to meet the unique needs of children with incarcerated parents. Research has proven that children with incarcerated parents have a 70% chance of being incarcerated, unless they have positive intervention.
As in the Community Based program, Big and Little Brothers and Sisters may meet at various times and places, allowing a flexible schedule for outings. These mentors and youth go to theater and sporting events, share a meal, try a new activity together or just talk with each other.
There were more than 870 children in Polk County with a parent in prison in 2007, according to the Iowa Department of Corrections. These children run the risk of a host of problems unique to their family situation. Often, they must deal with feelings of shame, anger and fear, as well as possible rejection from family and friends.
Through MCP, BBBSCI is building a stronger society by breaking the cycles of violence, chemical abuse and school drop-out rates. By having contact with a caring adult, central Iowa children of incarcerated parents have someone to talk to, listen to them and be a positive role model, helping break the cycle of multiple generations’ incarceration.
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