The correctional facilities in the United States are often congested and insufficiently attended to. Visionary and CEO of TextBehind, Zia Rana, suggests approaches to reform that emphasize enhancing communication between inmates and their circles of friends, family, and loved ones outside the prison walls. When inmates can strengthen their ties to their support networks, they are empowered to envision lives outside their current situations, which helps divert them from future criminal behavior, gang involvement, and lengthier sentences.
Though the potential for repeat offenses while incarcerated presents a significant issue, the greater challenge lies in the trend of recidivism and re-arrest after release from prison. Research indicates that in a study spanning 24 states, 66% of those released from incarceration find themselves re-arrested within three years, with nearly 20% falling into the same pattern within a ten-year period. The U.S. Correctional System struggles with some of the highest recidivism rates globally, making it critical for extensive reforms, greatly benefiting from advancements in social and technological facets provided by organizations like TextBehind.
TextBehind is an innovative organization that enables efficient communication between prisoners and their communities through cutting-edge cloud technology and traditional mailing services. By utilizing TextBehind, texts and photo messages can be printed and sent to correctional facilities across the United States. One of many service options offered by the organization includes both on-site and off-site solutions. This platform allows incarcerated individuals to engage more actively in the lives of their families.
A recent article published in PrisonPolicy.org highlights the strong connection between family communication and recidivism rates, revealing that women released from prison who maintained regular contact with loved ones had a lower likelihood of being reincarcerated within five years. The report describes mail correspondence as a vital support system, affirming that “personal letters represent a valued and effective means of communication for those inside and outside of prison.”
In addition to the transformative effects communication can have on inmates, it also provides a source of healing for families awaiting their release. Children with incarcerated family members are twice as likely to face learning challenges, including ADHD, ADD, and anxiety. Other research emphasizes the importance of exchanged written and visual correspondence with imprisoned relatives, indicating that being able to revisit physical letters over time can aid children in meaningfully understanding their relationships with their incarcerated family members.
TextBehind is committed to nurturing impactful connections between inmates and their families. As a socially responsible organization, they address the needs of a largely neglected prison population by advocating for changes that reach beyond prison confines. TextBehind aims to drive essential reforms within the U.S. correctional system, promoting improved lives for those they support. They understand the vital link between reliable, accessible communication and recidivism, helping inmates nationwide cultivate healthy and fulfilling relationships.
