Contact: reform@openheartleaders.org

OHL Reform is dedicated to helping individuals, families, and community members that have been impacted by our justice system. OHL Reform is a catalyst for individuals, families, and community members to participate in the process of trauma recovery, rehabilitation, healing, and reconciliation through the services and programs offered. This sector aims to support the knowledge, capabilities, and confidence that individuals may feel they lost within our society through their dealings with the system.

programs.

 

take charge (OHRI) - Open hearts Reentry initiative PRogram

(Coming Soon) Program Due to Launch 2024-2025

This program facilitates a reentry for those coming out of jail/prison, rehabilitation, or halfway homes. The program is designed to teach specific life skills and support needed for a comfortable transition back into society. Using a combination of educational wraparound services, mental health wraparound services, and life skills training, this program aids in reducing the high numbers of reentry back into the judicial system. 


The scope of the program is to bring educational and life guidelines along with the tools needed to adjust in the current positions of their lives. It is also to follow the client throughout the process to determine if further development or help may be needed beyond the program. This program aims to continue helping to reduce recidivism in the most impacted areas of San Diego while serving those committed to change. This program is designed to acclimate those who may not traditionally do well in a setting that doesn’t allow for them to work with experienced peer navigators.

    1. Orientation Workshop- Entry

    2. Parenting 101- For parents that are new parents or have smaller kids

    3. Parenting 102- For parents that are not new parents

    4. Social Skills

    5. Healthy Living

    6. Cooking

    7. Etiquette- Manners

    8. Fashion- Attire

    9. Job Preparation

    10. Current Technology

    11. Empowerment Course

    12. Mindfulness & Meditation

    13. Battling Addiction

    14. Creative Arts

    15. Financial Literacy

    16. Sex Education

    17. Emotional Wellness

    18. Getting Back On Track

    19. Exiting the Gang Life

    20. Exit Counseling- Mandatory

services

Court Advocacy & Support

At Open Heart Leaders, we understand that navigating the legal system can be overwhelming and emotionally draining. Whether you're facing a court case, seeking justice, or advocating for your rights, we're here to offer comprehensive support every step of the way.

  • Compassionate Support:

    We understand the emotional toll legal matters can take. Our team approaches every case with empathy, compassion, and a commitment to providing personalized support tailored to your unique needs.

    Expertise and Experience:

    With years of experience in legal advocacy and court support, our team possesses the knowledge and expertise necessary to navigate complex legal processes effectively.

    Client-Centered Approach:

    Your well-being and satisfaction are our top priorities. We take a client-centered approach, actively listening to your concerns, respecting your decisions, and advocating tirelessly on your behalf.

    Empowerment Through Education:

    We believe in empowering individuals with knowledge and resources to advocate for themselves. Through education and support, we aim to empower you to navigate the legal system confidently.

    Dedication to Justice:

    At Open Heart Leaders, we are committed to fighting for justice and fairness for all. Whether you're facing injustice, discrimination, or hardship, we stand by your side, advocating for your rights and working towards positive outcomes.Description text goes here

  • Court Accompaniment:

    We provide compassionate and knowledgeable advocates to accompany you to court proceedings. Our team offers emotional support, guidance, and assistance in understanding court procedures, ensuring you feel empowered and prepared throughout the process.

    Legal Advocacy:

    Our experienced advocates specialize in legal advocacy, advocating for your rights and interests within the legal system. From communicating with attorneys to drafting legal documents, we work tirelessly to ensure your voice is heard and your needs are met.

    Case Consultation:

    Understanding your legal rights and options is crucial. We offer personalized case consultations to discuss your situation, assess the best course of action, and provide clarity on legal processes and potential outcomes.

    Resource Referral:

    We understand that legal matters often intersect with various other aspects of life. That's why we offer resource referral services, connecting you with trusted professionals and organizations for additional support, such as counseling, housing assistance, or financial aid.

    Community Education:

    Empowering individuals with knowledge is at the core of what we do. Through workshops, seminars, and community events, we strive to educate individuals on their legal rights, how to navigate the legal system, and strategies for self-advocacy.

    Crisis Intervention:

    Legal matters can often arise during times of crisis or vulnerability. Our team is equipped to provide immediate crisis intervention and support, ensuring you have the resources and assistance you need during challenging times.Description text goes here

Record Expungement

At Open Heart Leaders, we team up with our local public defender's office to offer record expungement services, empowering individuals to overcome the limitations of a criminal past. Through our collaborative approach, we guide clients through the expungement process, providing the support and resources needed to clear their records. Together, we're opening doors to new opportunities, helping clients secure employment, housing, and a fresh start in life.

Heart To Heart Counseling

Our Heart to Heart Counseling Program, where we provide essential mental health services to those formerly incarcerated or justice-impacted. Offering free services for one year, we aim to address the root causes of their struggles, aiding in the fight against recidivism. With culturally diverse therapists and lived-experience case managers, we offer personalized support tailored to individual backgrounds and experiences. Our approach acknowledges the unique challenges this population faces and empowers them to overcome barriers to successful reintegration into society.

*This program is specifically grant & donor base. Participant slots are determined by funding.

  • Program Participant Criteria:

    Must be age 16 and up

    Been incarcerated for more than 1 year in Jail, Federal or State Prison

    Be willing to connect with other resources

    Participate in Orientation Life skills course with OHL

    Currently justice impacted and referred by attorney or community program

    Been out of Jail, Federal or State prison for at least 2 weeks.

    Must be willing to commit to a full year of service through signed contract

  • This initiative provides vital support to formerly incarcerated individuals from low-income and marginalized communities, offering them the opportunity to access free counseling for an entire year, totaling 52 weeks.

    Why Have An Open Heart?

    What people don’t know is that San Diego County has one of the highest recidivism rates in the state of California, with approximately 56 percent of state prisoners, 45 percent of federal prisoners, and 64 percent of local jail inmates experiencing a mental health problem. Nearly 74 percent of ex-offenders in our county return to prison within two years of release. The connection between mental health and incarceration is well-documented. This pressure leads to an increase in suicide, addiction, homelessness, and furthermore, reincarceration after being released.

    Why OHL?

    - Services from a community-trusted organization located in the community it serves.

    - Relatable and lived-experienced staff with diverse backgrounds.

    - Guarantees clients are getting full wraparound support while tending to their mental health.

    HEART TO HEART Ensures:

    - Clients can focus on using funds for basic necessities.

    - Clients have access to counseling without the stress of finances.

    - Proper diagnosis.

    - Connection to other resources to reduce recidivism.

    - Commitment and consistency.

  • Open Heart Leaders Heart to Heart Counseling program is primarily funded through fundraising donations, grants and private donors. The programs participant availability is subjected to the amount of funds raised and collected.

    This program is always taking new donors and new fiscal partners.

    Donate today if you are someone who supports mental health services for our justice impacted population.