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Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal – Vol. 9, No. 2

Publication Date: February 25, 2022

DOI:10.14738/assrj.92.11718. Watson, J., & DeBerry, C. D. (2022). Strategic Planning Using Engaged Scholarship: Building A Reentry Organization. Advances in

Social Sciences Research Journal, 9(2). 48-59.

Services for Science and Education – United Kingdom

Strategic Planning Using Engaged Scholarship: Building A Reentry

Organization

Jerry Watson, PhD, LCSW, MBA

Assistant Professor

School of Social Work, University of Memphis

Crystal D. DeBerry, DSW, LCSW

Executive Director

Indomitable Families Affected by Incarceration (IFAM)

ABSTRACT

Given the incredible growth in incarceration numbers and resultant increases in

returning prisoners, reentry programs play a critical role in the lives of justice

involved individuals and their families, and communities. The aim of this engaged

scholarship effort was to work in partnership with a community-based reentry

organization to conduct strategic planning. Among the unique organizational

assets identified were mental health services, social support groups, clinical

professional development, and social entrepreneurship including housing and

innovative technology development initiatives. Building on Indomitable Families

Affected by Incarceration’s history, strengths, and opportunities, the results yielded

a set of action steps to guide the organization’s future.

Keywords: Reentry programs, strategic planning, engaged scholarship, social support

groups, social entrepreneurship

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this engaged scholarship project was to build the organizational capacity of a

community-based, not-for-profit-organization. The researcher and stakeholders designed,

developed, and implemented a strategic planning process while leveraging higher education

faculty resources in partnership with Indomitable Families Affected by Incarceration (IFAM).

Founded by a former prisoner’s wife, IFAM is an organization that seeks to help restore and

empower persons impacted by the criminal justice system. The founder initially sought to

create an organization that would provide assistance for women facing the collateral

consequences of partner incarceration. After four years of operating, the organization

expanded to include all members to of the family affected by incarceration becoming IFAM.

The mission of the organization is to empower families and individuals affected by

incarceration, by promoting health and wellness, and minimizing societal barriers. The core

mission is the driving force behind what has grown into an organization focused on reentry,

rehabilitation, and social entrepreneurship.