STEPBYSTEP

1st Step Newsletter   |   April 2024

Executive Director’s Letter

Portrait of 1st Step Male Diversion Program Executive Director David Phillips

Elevating the Process of Desistance

Desistance, the process of refraining from criminal behavior among individuals with a history of offending, is gaining attention within the 1st Step program despite its longstanding implementation of principles aligning with this concept. Academic criminologists are shifting their focus from mere recidivism rates to desistance, recognizing that recidivism fails to capture the effectiveness of criminal justice interventions fully. Desistance, unlike recidivism, centers on the journey rather than the outcome, acknowledging that criminal interventions cannot be adequately assessed through static recidivism rates, which often overlook any progress made by offenders beyond a predetermined period.


1st Step has long acknowledged the intricate nature of criminal behavior, prompting the exploration of various interventions based on diverse desistance theories and measurement approaches. While there is no universal formula or consensus on measuring desistance, proposed methodologies, such as Kristopher Bucklen's suggestion to gauge an individual's deceleration, de-escalation and “reaching a ceiling,” offer valuable insights into this dynamic process.


Desistance encompasses biological, psychological, sociological and agency-related components. Observations from my legal practice reveal a significant decline in criminal behavior with age, supported by scientific findings indicating that the human brain's full maturation occurs around the mid-twenties. During adolescence and early adulthood, the underdeveloped prefrontal cortex correlates with impulsive behaviors often associated with criminal involvement. Psychologically, transformations in participants' cognition, beliefs and actions contribute to behavioral modifications. Life transitions, such as parenthood, marriage or changes in social circles, can prompt internal shifts leading to desistance. Additionally, acknowledging and taking responsibility for past mistakes and transgression is crucial to the desistance process.


Recognizing the complexity of desistance, 1st Step adopts a holistic approach integrating pro-social activities, cognitive behavioral therapy, positive psychology alongside incentives for constructive behavior, mentorship, life skills development and vocational training. This comprehensive strategy has proven successful in facilitating desistance among program participants.

David Phillips

Executive Director and Co-Founder of the 1st Step Male Diversion Program

DONATION CAMPAIGN

Introducing Dads4Kids

by Alexis Padilla


I joined 1st Step in January of this year as its new Development Director after Nancy Collins retired from the position. Nancy now chairs the Development Committee within 1st Step’s Board. In this capacity, I am honored to share with you 1st Step’s most recent donation campaign, Dads4Kids. 


As some of you know, 50% of our 1st Step participants have children. A staggering 89% grew up in homes where the father was absent. Hence, we stress the value of parenting classes and skill building for all 1st Step participants, even those without children. Often, they have very close relationships with their nieces and nephews, and we see this campaign as applicable to these extended family circles as well. 


Often, when these dads have newborn children or expectant wives, they require support with all kinds of items: infant strollers, cradles, baby formula, diapers, baby clothing, etc. If you wish to donate these items in kind, please call Amy at 918-367-0641. 


During the summer, 1st Step intends to incorporate visits to the Tulsa Zoo, Oklahoma Aquarium, Discovery Lab, and more. We are convinced this will enhance family reunification while providing crucial collective experiences with invaluable prosocial characteristics. The family packages for these outings are expensive, which has moved us to launch the latest donation campaign. For Dads4Kids cash donations, please email Alexis Padilla at apadilla@1ststepmdp.com.

PARTICIPANT Highlight

Brandon

Brandon, a dedicated participant in the 1st Step program since August 16, 2021, has demonstrated exceptional determination and personal growth. Despite facing numerous challenges along the way, Brandon's unwavering determination has seen him through, successfully completing all requisite programming courses, securing employment at Hesselbein since March 7, 2023, and attaining his GED early on in his engagement with the program. His proactive efforts to fulfill child support obligations and actively participate in establishing regular visitation with his son are a testament to his profound sense of responsibility and devotion to his family's welfare.


Moreover, Brandon's recent job offer, with a higher wage, signifies a significant milestone in his journey. It enables him to transition to independent living and pave the path for a brighter future for himself and his son.


The 1st Step program takes immense pride in Brandon's transformation and steadfast commitment to being a reliable father figure. We commend his achievements and pledge our continued support for his journey ahead.

In-house Programs & Classes Updates

Featured Program

A Strike for Positive Change: 1st Step's Night at the Lanes

by Buck West


In the heart of transformation and rehabilitation, shared experiences play a pivotal role, a truth brightly illuminated during a recent outing by the 1st Step Male Diversion Program. As part of their ongoing journey toward personal growth and societal reintegration, participants in Phase I of this groundbreaking program recently traded their routine for a night of bowling. This experience was as enlightening as it was enjoyable.


The sound of bowling balls thundering down lanes and pins crashing in their wake filled the air, but the true resonance came from the laughter, cheers, and words of encouragement exchanged amongst the participants. This was not merely a recreational outing but a testament to the power of positive group dynamics and shared experiences in fostering personal growth and social skills.


Research supports the significance of such activities. Engaging in structured social activities reduces recidivism and promotes desistance from criminal behaviors, which are key objectives of the 1st Step Male Diversion Program. The bowling night served as a perfect platform for participants to practice healthy competition, demonstrate sportsmanship, and build a sense of community–skills essential for their successful reentry into society.


Throughout the evening, the atmosphere was charged with a spirit of camaraderie. Participants cheered for each other's strikes and spares but also offered a hand of support during misses. This supportive environment extended beyond their group, as they interacted positively with other patrons of the bowling center. It was a heartening sight to see individuals, often marginalized by society, engaging seamlessly and positively with the community at large.


Perhaps most importantly, this event allowed the participants to experience a sense of normalcy and joy often absent in their lives. The laughter and friendly banter that filled the air were stark reminders that beyond their past mistakes, these individuals are just like anyone else—eager for acceptance, companionship, and a chance to enjoy life's simpler pleasures.


As the night ended, the participants left with a sense of achievement from their bowling scores and a deeper understanding of teamwork, mutual respect, and the joy of shared experiences. These lessons, learned in the informal setting of a bowling alley, are invaluable as they continue their journey towards a more positive and productive path in life.


The 1st Step Male Diversion Program continues to break new ground in rehabilitative strategies, demonstrating the profound impact of collective experiences in reshaping lives. The bowling night was more than just a game; it was a striking example of how, when given the opportunity and support, individuals can come together to knock down the pins of their past and roll toward a brighter, more hopeful future.

A group of young men are standing next to each other in a parking lot.

Accomplishment

1st Step's 11th Graduation Ceremony

by Lindy Myers


On February 9, 2024, 1st Step celebrated its 11th Graduation, marking the achievement of four exceptional young men who have successfully completed the program. Their stories are emblematic of determination, resilience, and the transformative power of support and opportunity.


These graduates are proof that change is not only possible but achievable. Witnessing their journey from entry into the program to becoming sober, successful, and, most importantly, present fathers is truly inspiring. Their dedication to personal growth has not only transformed their own lives but has also led to the reunification of families, a testament to the profound impact of rehabilitation and support systems.


One graduate stands out for achieving his GED while in the program and has since secured a living wage job, demonstrating remarkable independence and ambition. With plans to further his education, he embodies the spirit of continuous growth and advancement.


Another graduate, who earned his GED during his time at 1st Step, is now gainfully employed at a living wage job and actively pursuing his CDL B license. His newfound responsibilities as a father have ignited a sense of purpose, driving him to provide for his family and set a positive example for his daughter.


A third graduate has completed CDL B training through Tulsa Tech and successfully rebuilt his family unit through dedication and hard work. Now living with his wife, they are striving to regain custody of their daughter while eagerly anticipating the arrival of another child. His story exemplifies the power of rehabilitation and the importance of familial bonds.


Lastly, a fourth graduate is carving his path toward independence while supporting his mother. His dedication to his family is matched by his ambition to further his education and pursue a career in social work. Already serving as a mentor to children in his community, he embodies the values of compassion and service. Additionally, he is working a living wage job while pursuing a CDL B license to further his position at the company he is working for.


These graduates from 1st Step showcase the potential for positive change when individuals are provided with support, guidance, and opportunities for growth. Their successes not only reflect their personal triumphs but also inspire hope and possibility for others facing similar challenges.

A group of men are standing in front of a screen that says 1st Step.

Upcoming Events

Drillers Game for Families

May 5, 11:30 AM

ONEOK Field

201 N Elgin Ave, Tulsa, OK 74120

You can help change a life. Join our mission and help these young men take the 1st Step to a better future.

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