Targets: Recidivism

Target-setting is an important step in achieving positive outcomes for children, youth, families and the community.  In order to achieve better results leaders can commit to setting a measurable target and a timeframe for its accomplishment.

Questions to Consider  

• Based on trend and projection data what is an achievable target?

• How will the target be used?  As an inspiration for mobilizing public will and action? As a benchmark for measuring performance and accountability?

• Can targets be set for specific groups or regions within the state?

• How will local targets be incorporated, if at all, into the state target? What support can the state give to local entities to set and achieve targets?

• How will racial disparities, geographic differences and other variations be considered?

• What will ensure targets are appropriately set and used over time?

Examples

• The New Hampshire State Department of Corrections established a goal to reduce recidivism among female ex-offenders by 50 percent in five years.[1] and  to reduce inmate population by 25 percent over five years.[2]

• The Illinois Department of Corrections through the “Illinois Going Home Program” aimed to secure 75 percent of ex-offenders with employment beginning in 2002.[3]

[1] Timmons, A. (12/01/09). Female offenders get some help. Concord: Concord Monitor.