STEPBYSTEP

1st Step Newsletter   |   October 2023

Executive Director’s Letter

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

In this month's newsletter, we delve into a core philosophy behind the 1st Step Male Diversion Program – Rational Choice Theory. Designed with the aim of providing participants with a clear path towards a crime-free life, the program has its roots in the age-old principle that rational individuals act in their own self-interest. 


Rational Choice Theory, originally championed by Adam Smith in 1776 within the economic realm, has since transcended boundaries into fields such as sociology, psychology, philosophy, and criminology. At its heart, it posits that individuals make choices that maximize their self-interests.


Criminologists have harnessed the power of Rational Choice Theory to understand and explain criminal behavior. It becomes evident that individuals when presented with options, weigh the consequences against their self-interests before making decisions.


Ten years ago, a young Afro-American woman provided a simple yet profound insight into keeping young Afro-American males out of the criminal justice system: "They need a job." This wisdom stuck, and when designing the 1st Step program, it became the cornerstone. Employment not only serves as a powerful deterrent to criminal behavior but also fosters a sense of self-esteem.


Our program was meticulously crafted to eliminate obstacles and empower participants to make rational choices. By providing access to sobriety, a living wage job, and independent living, we ensure that participants have more to lose than ever before. This, in turn, propels them toward a life free from criminal activities.


In the spirit of Rational Choice Theory, we have seen that when individuals are equipped with the means to secure their self-interests through legal and productive avenues, they choose the path of lawfulness and personal growth.


Thank you for your continued support of the 1st Step Program as we strive to make a positive impact in our community.


Warm regards,

David Phillips

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

BOARD ENGAGEMENT

1st Step Fridays


The third Friday of each month has become 1st Step Friday. It’s an opportunity for Board members and staff to mingle with guests and enjoy conversation and lunch at the 1st Step offices. It’s an opportunity for guests to learn more about the 1st Step history, program, and current happenings plus how to become involved. Come join us. We’d love to welcome you.


When: October 20th & November 17th, 12:00 PM

Where: 1516 S. Boston Ave, Suite 115

RSVP to Amy Ellison: Email (aellison@1ststepmdp.com) or Text (918-805-6802)

Team Member Highlight

Amy Ellison, Executive Administrative Assistant

Amy Ellison

My name is Amy Ellison, and I work as the Executive Administrative Assistant at the 1st Step Male Diversion Program. I have the privilege of being our Executive Director, David Phillips’ assistant. He is an extraordinary gentleman who has accomplished more in his life than anyone I know. I also, from time to time, get to interact with the wonderful, diverse members of our board of directors. These men and women dedicate their time and their knowledge to this organization because it’s something they personally believe in. It's been an amazing opportunity and privilege. 


Before joining this wonderful organization, my life had taken an entirely different turn. For nearly a decade during my twenties and thirties, I struggled with the constraints of the criminal justice system. I was in and out of prison, was in active addiction, and was involved in a variety of situations that would make any parent pray hard every night for their child's safety and protection. I find myself once again in the role of a parent to two young children, while my other two are now grown. I am now living a clean and sober life, which has given me a clear perspective on the pain and hardship I caused my family in the past. 


I work alongside Lindy Myers, our very dedicated Deputy Executive Director, David, and the rest of the 1st Step team, to help with the day-to-day operations. I also plan most of our events, such as graduations and holiday parties. I talk with people who used to make me nervous, and I'm glad I can create those relationships now that it's all for the right reasons. I'm grateful that I may now serve as an example and an advocate for change. Because of my own experiences, I have a unique perspective and a deep understanding of the troubles that the young men in our program face. I'm able to help, encourage, and demonstrate to them that, no matter how difficult the process appears to be, they can change their lives for the better. My own experience proves that anyone, at any age, can transform their life. I consider myself blessed to be a part of this organization.

Participant Spotlight

Jeff

Jeff Cooke's journey is truly inspirational. He started his transformative journey with the 1st Step program on December 20, 2022, at a critical point in his life when he was facing a daunting 6-year prison sentence. However, Jeff was determined to change his life and forge a new path.


His dedication and tenacity were evident as he successfully completed a rigorous 30-day inpatient treatment program at Harbor House. Since joining the 1st Step program, Jeff's commitment to self-improvement and personal development has been remarkable.


Jeff worked hard to earn certificates in financial literacy, nutrition, and peer recovery support, demonstrating his commitment to acquiring new skills and knowledge. He also took on the responsibilities of parenting classes with unwavering determination, showing his dedication to becoming a better parent.

His transformation extended beyond education and personal development. Jeff secured a job as a server at Peppers, where his outstanding performance led to a rapid promotion to a managerial role. This newfound stability allowed him to move into his own apartment, a significant milestone on his journey to self-reliance.


Jeff's dedication to healing and rebuilding also extended to his family. He is working hard to restore and reunite with his two daughters and wife, demonstrating his commitment to repairing and strengthening his relationships.


Jeff's journey took an exciting turn when he pursued a CDL B training course through Tulsa Tech, culminating in his graduation and the acquisition of a CDL B license. Today, he finds fulfillment working for a reputable concrete company, where he drives a truck and earns a commendable living wage.


The 1st Step program couldn't be prouder of Jeff and eagerly anticipates accompanying him on the rest of his journey. We are committed to providing unwavering support as he continues to prosper and inspire others through his incredible transformation. Jeff's story is a testament to the power of determination and resilience in overcoming challenges and creating a better future.

1st Step Participant, Jeff Cooke

STAFF DEVELOPMENT

CPR Class

All 1st Step staff became certified in CPR and AED in July 2023. The training was contracted through Heart Saver Institute. It involved both online and classroom components. Topics included the difference between a stroke, a heart attack and cardiac arrest; what to do for a choking person; steps to take at the scene of an emergency for an adult, a child and an infant; and information about good Samaritan laws. After passing an examination covering the 64 online modules of the course, staff attended a 2-hour, in-person, hands-on training session to gain experience performing CPR and using an automated external defibrillator (AED).


Thanks to The Gelvin Foundation, 1st Step’s two residences and its office will each be equipped with an AED machine.

In-house Programs & Classes Updates

Program Updates

Financial Literacy


1st Step gives a big shout out to Arvest Bank for providing Financial Literacy classes to 1st Step participants. The classes, taught by Arvest personnel, teach participants the basics of money management: how to track income and expenses, how to develop a spending and savings plan, understanding credit reports and scores, the cost of borrowing money, managing debt, how credit cards work, and the home buying process. That knowledge lays a foundation for participants to build strong money habits and avoid the mistakes that lead to lifelong money struggles. The course is presented twice a year in 12 1.5- hour sessions over a 3-month period.


Thank you Arvest for this critical course.

Goal

SNAP Education & Training Reimbursement


1st Step has developed a strong working relationship with the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) because 1st Step participants qualify for DHS benefits. As they enter 1st Step, participants are enrolled in Sooner Care (the Oklahoma Medicaid program) and in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as the Food Stamp Program, which helps people buy food each month. 



Education, work readiness and skills training are important elements of the 1st Step program. A major focus of the 1st Step program is on personal and financial stability through employment. Since both SNAP and 1st Step encourage participant employment, 1st Step qualifies for SNAP Education and Training reimbursement for job search training, basic education, and retention services. Since early 2023, 1st Step staff have been working with Emily Dean of the Center for Employment Opportunities to complete a SNAP E&T program narrative and a template spreadsheet which identifies the 1st Step SNAP E&T budget, including eligible participant reimbursements. The budget is now being finalized, and monthly reimbursement is scheduled to start in October.

Accomplishments

1st Step 9th Graduation


On August 25, 2023, a significant milestone was achieved as we celebrated the 9th graduation of our 1st Step Male Diversion Program participants. This heartwarming event marked the transformation of six remarkable individuals, including four clients from the northern district and two from the state of Oklahoma. Among these wonderful young men, two are devoted fathers who have successfully reunited with their children and are now diligently caring for them. The accomplishments of this group are truly inspiring - two individuals completed welding and computer numeric control training through Tulsa Tech, while another two achieved welding certifications. Additionally, one participant earned a GED during his time in the program, and another honed his skills through Warehouse Training at Tulsa Tech, acquiring valuable certifications in forklift operation and OSHA compliance. These accomplishments reflect the unwavering dedication and hard work put forth by these young men in their journey towards recovery and self-sufficiency, now proudly serving as contributing, tax-paying members of our community.

1st Step 9th Graduation Ceremony – August 25, 2023

Upcoming Events

Annual Unity Picnic

October 7, 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM

Tulsa Zoo

6421 E. 36th St. N, Tulsa, OK 74115

RSVP to Amy Ellison: Email (aellison@1ststepmdp.com) or Text (918-805-6802)

1st Step Friday

October 20, 12:00 PM

1516 S. Boston Ave, Suite 115

RSVP to Amy Ellison: Email (aellison@1ststepmdp.com) or Text (918-805-6802)

1st Step Friday

November 17, 12:00 PM

1516 S. Boston Ave, Suite 115

RSVP to Amy Ellison: Email (aellison@1ststepmdp.com) or Text (918-805-6802)

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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