​What First Step Can Do

Job Placement

​Job training and placement are the cornerstones of the 1st Step Program. Self esteem and financial independence are essential to create pro-social attitudes and a responsible, law abiding  lifestyle. From the outset, providers and consultants affiliated with 1st Step provide assessment, counseling, training and job placement in meaningful jobs. Our goal is to help each participant create his own long career path to achieve not only financial independence but also self confidence and community acceptance.

Mentoring

​Experienced and empathetic mentors can help the participants cope with the challenges and demands of the maturity which the program requires. Men who have “been there” in the criminal justice system or through addictions provided invaluable assistance. In addition, men who have lived a successful and law abiding life can also provide invaluable lessons in how to live normally and productively in society.  1st Step recruits, trains, places and monitors at least one mentor with each participant.

Sober Living

​One of the most important elements of the 1st Step program is residence provided in a house, either owned by 1st Step or through rooms leased in well-established local sober living houses. Participants are require to live in these communal and highly regulated settings for the first phase. In addition to providing security and discipline, residential living ensures that participants are removed from adverse peer and family relationships which have had a negative effect on their behavioral development. House rules are strictly maintained which also ensures acceptance by the District Court responsible for ensuring public safety.

Education

​Our participants are required to finish their high school educations or obtain a G.E.D. if not already attained. In addition, 1st Step partners with Tulsa Community College and Tulsa Tech to provide more advanced education in areas which are meaningful for the participant and are intended to reduce barriers which have likely contributed to the unhealthy peer relationships and lifestyles. Education, like job training and placement, is a high priority of the program.

Treatment

1st Step is committed to provide counseling in individual and group settings to educate the participants and help them develop pro-social life choices based on evidence based involvement with skilled professionals. While working and adapting to an interactive living arrangement, the participants work on their behavioral impediments to a successful and crime free life. Substance use disorders are addressed and overcome as an integral part of the 1st Step mission. Where appropriate, participants attend NA or AA classes in a regular 12 step program.

Success

​Success for 1st Step participants is measured by completion of the program, compliance with all court orders and being able to live in conformity with law and social norms with renewed optimism, personal resolve, social skills, educational and career goals and a commitment to community and citizenship.