When young men enter the justice system, traditional rehabilitation often assumes they are returning to something—an earlier, healthier version of themselves. But what if that version never existed?

In our newest research paper, the 1st Step Male Diversion Program team challenges this core assumption. Drawing on extensive experience and compelling program outcomes, the paper makes a powerful case for habilitation—the process of building life skills, values, and habits for the first time—as a more effective framework for justice-involved youth and emerging adults.

This paper explores:

• Why many young offenders need habilitation, not rehabilitation
  Many program participants never had the opportunity to learn basic emotional regulation, healthy decision-making, or job readiness skills. They need to build, not just rebuild.
• How habilitation addresses the root causes of criminal behavior
  The 1st Step model provides structured support, life skills training, therapy, education, and job placement to help young men forge new identities and futures.
• Real outcomes and lasting impact
  With a 92% success rate and more than $3.3 million in taxpayer savings, 1st Step demonstrates how habilitative diversion can break cycles of incarceration and restore communities—one life at a time.

This isn’t just theory—it’s a proven model reshaping lives in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and offering a roadmap for criminal justice reform nationwide.



If you believe in solutions that build lasting change—not just temporary relief—we invite you to read the full paper and join us in supporting a smarter, more compassionate approach to justice.