Sheriff Juan Figueroa announced that on December 1, 2023, the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office launched a National Sheriffs’ Association program titled I.G.N.I.T.E. Individual Growth Naturally and Intentionally Through Education. This is MORE than just a program. This is an opportunity to change the culture of incarceration in our community with the goal of restoring value, hope, and purpose to our incarcerated population.
I.G.N.I.T.E. is a merit-based program incentivizing those enrolled to complete educational programs and connecting viable candidates with promising resources when they are released. I.G.N.I.T.E. was born of the idea that an educated individual has opportunity and hope for a better future, in turn, reducing the rate of recidivism. Too often, we see generations of families stuck in a cycle of incarceration, release, and recidivism.
This program has been specifically designed to change the culture of incarceration and the stigma associated with being a citizen returning to the community after an incarceration. With I.G.N.I.T.E., YOU can help create contributing members of society and put an end to generational incarceration.
We are looking for volunteers, partnerships and sponsorships that can offer opportunities such as:
- Adult Enrichment Education
- Understanding Mental Health
- Addiction Education
- Life Skills
- Skilled Trades
- Certifications
- Employment
- Wellness Programs
- Career Readiness
- Parenting Classes
- Photo ID Cards
- Official Documents
- Reentry Support Services
- Essential Supplies for Reentry Care Packages
The possibilities are endless, and ALL educational opportunities will be considered!!
I.G.N.I.T.E. will come as a benefit to our county both inside the walls of the jail as well as on the outside. 90% of those incarcerated at a county level return to society while a mere 10% go to prison. Let’s help those returning to society be better educated than when they came in.
If you or someone you know is interested in partnering with the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office and contributing to the change, please contact Sergeant Megan Ferri at mfer@co.ulster.ny.us at your earliest convenience to discuss how you can help!
