The rate of incarceration in Oklahoma is increasing and the rate of recidivism among discharged inmates is even greater. Statistics show that between 50% to 70% of ex-offenders return to prison within three years of their release and 80% of that number return within the first six months. The damage recidivism does to society and already wounded families is enormous.

What if there was a way to mend the hearts and minds of the incarcerated and equip them to obtain and hold jobs and ultimately draw their families into a godly and positive relationship after they have been released? Would it be worth the effort or are they the "throw-aways" of society, not deserving of God and man's grace and support?

The GENESIS ONE (G-1) NETWORK was established to work in conjunction with the Department of Corrections to break this destructive cycle. Our vision is to reduce failure and increase opportunities for inmates to successfully and effectively assimilate into society as productive law-abiding citizens, through both pre- and post-release programs.

GENESIS ONE believes in the second chance as do hundreds of hard-working individuals across the State of Oklahoma who currently act as volunteers and mentors, both in and out of our prisons.

We are a Christian, faith-based organization whose chapter membership is open to any inmate regardless of race, age, gender, or religious preference. However, that inmate must accept God into his or her life before continuing in the program. GENESIS ONE believes that:

Without God This Program Will Be Of No Value

Since its inception, GENESIS ONE has had 600 graduates, and a recidivism rate of 10%, or only 60 repeat offenders, with an estimated annual saving to the State of Oklahoma of between $4-5 million dollars.

When considering that families and children are being removed from the State welfare rolls because ex-offenders return home to lead productive lives in our communities, the savings to the State of Oklahoma is incalculable. Thus far, as a result of GENESIS ONE, more than 200 mothers have been reunited with their children and families and successfully reentered society with a new hope born of faith in God and a positive attitude toward life.

__________________________________________