WISH LIST $100: hygiene items for 100 just-released inmates; $250: supplies that permit 25 kids to stay in touch with incarcerated parents; $500: uniforms, hard hats or boots for 20 newly employed clients

OAR stands for Opportunities, Alternatives, and Resources—three things that are typically missing from the lives of offenders. Working with the court system to operate alternative sentencing programs that require community service at shelters, food banks, and nursing homes, OAR begins by keeping first time and misdemeanor offenders out of jail. For those who do enter prison, a “restorative justice” program teaches inmates to take responsibility for their crimes and “restore the harm” they have caused—through community service projects like anti-crime posters designed by inmates and displayed on metro buses. Life skills classes on topics like workplace behavior, responsible fatherhood, and budgeting, all help offenders learn about and look forward to a sustainable, crime-free life. One-on-one mentoring by - staff and a growing body of volunteers - helps too, providing supportive listening, guidance in decision-making and, most importantly, individual goal-setting for re-entry into the community. Post-release planning is also critical: emergency assistance with food, rent, utilities; employment readiness and job referrals; family support and programs for children; self-sufficiency case management - all are designed to keep offenders out of jail and help their families recover. The goal here is to break the cycle and rebuild lives. Your help means opportunities, alternatives, and resources for people who really need them.

Derwin Overton, Executive Director 10640 Page Avenue, Suite 250 Fairfax, VA 22030 703-246-3033 www.oarfairfax.org