The Jude House: Reducing Recidivism through Vocational Education

In Charles County, Maryland, the Jude House stands as a symbol of hope and transformation for individuals overcoming substance use disorders. As a long-term residential treatment program, the Jude House provides comprehensive care and support, serving up to 50 residents at any given time. Central to its mission is the integration of vocational education, designed to equip residents with the skills and certifications needed to build a new life. A pivotal partnership with the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) has significantly enhanced this initiative, providing residents with the tools to embark on careers in fitness and wellness.

"The Jude House is a long-term substance use treatment program serving patients with a six to nine-month program, which is a 3.5 level of care," explains Michelle Asmussen, who oversees the reentry program. This level of care involves 35 hours of required programming for substance use treatment, supplemented by various additional initiatives, including reentry support, family integration, wellness, spirituality, and a post-care alumni program.

The Jude House primarily serves individuals coming directly from incarceration, with 90% of their residents having been incarcerated for five years or more. This unique demographic underscores the importance of comprehensive reentry support. "Our residents have options when they leave here," says Michelle. The vocational education program is a cornerstone of this support, offering pathways to employment and stability.

The ISSA Partnership: Opening Doors to New Opportunities

The partnership between the Jude House and ISSA began in early 2023. Michelle was researching online training programs that could provide residents with valuable credentials when she discovered ISSA. Since then, the collaboration has flourished. "Of all the residents that have gone through ISSA programs and received credentials, either as a personal fitness trainer, nutrition coach, or health coach, more than 50% of them are employed in fitness or wellness careers at some level right now," shares Michelle.

The impact of these certifications extends beyond just employment. They instill confidence and provide a sense of purpose. "It's giving them self-confidence in their ability to learn and giving them hope for their ability to really put this to use in the future," Michelle adds.

Staying Connected and Providing Continuous Support

The Jude House's commitment to its residents doesn't end when they complete their treatment program. An extensive alumni program ensures ongoing support. "We use social media, in-person meetings, online meetings, surveys, and gatherings to continuously stay in touch. We have a 24-hour allocated phone number that they all get, so they can reach out for support at any given time," explains Michelle.

This continuous connection is vital for maintaining sobriety and ensuring successful reintegration. "If they come through treatment and they do one thing and it's not working or they haven't found work yet, they can reach back out, and we can add an additional program or refer them to jobs," Michelle says. This holistic approach has resulted in remarkable success rates, with recidivism rates dropping by 25% in two years and recovery and sobriety rates increasing by 27%.

Transforming Lives Through Vocational Training

The stories of individual residents highlight the transformative power of vocational education. Michelle shares an inspiring example: "I have two residents currently taking the ISSA life coach course. One of them, when he came in, was just not focused at all. But now, the impact it has made is amazing. He's learning about behavioral modifications and applying what he learns in treatment to help others."

Another resident recently completed the nutrition course and is already looking for the next step. "He's learning and taking it seriously. I quiz him to make sure he’s actually learning, and he knows about weight-to-fat ratios and the biological aspects of nutrition," Michelle proudly states.

A Model for Success: Encouraging Other Organizations to Follow Suit

The partnership between The Jude House and ISSA serves as a powerful model for other organizations. By providing residents with valuable certifications and ongoing support, the program not only reduces recidivism but also empowers individuals to build healthier, more fulfilling lives.

ISSA’s vision is to empower 100 million people through the power of healthy living by the year 2030, through a multiplier effect. “Individuals becoming personal trainers, health coaches, nutrition coaches, and strength and conditioning coaches are going out and impacting tens, hundreds, maybe thousands of people,” explains ISSA VP of Strategic Partnerships, Kurt Mangum II.

For organizations looking to replicate this success, Mangum offers a clear message: "We want to stay invested in our students, not just while they're taking the course, but throughout their career journey in fitness and wellness. If they're invested, we're invested."

The collaboration between The Jude House and ISSA exemplifies the tremendous impact vocational education can have on individuals in recovery. By equipping residents with valuable skills and certifications, providing continuous support, and fostering a sense of purpose and confidence, this partnership is transforming lives and reducing recidivism. 

As Michelle eloquently puts it, "Our job, more than anything else, is to be motivators and cheerleaders. If I can come through incarceration and go back to school, anyone can. Our job is to help them see that and support them every step of the way."

For more information on how to partner with ISSA and create similar programming, please reach out to partnerships@issaonline.com. Together, we can make a lasting impact and help countless individuals achieve healthier, more fulfilling lives.