It may not be generally known in the community that there is a treatment program for offenders in Weld County.  In light of the recent article in the Tribune regarding an increase in the number of parolees and a consequent increase in the number of crimes committed, we want to assure the community that there is a ray of light regarding those parolees that want to turn their lives around.

Make no mistake, for someone with a felony conviction, there are many barriers to lodging, employment, even relationships.  An offender comes out of prison with little more than the proverbial shirt on his or her back, and is expected to pull life together.  It is not surprising that, according to Greeley Police Chief Jerry Garner, so many return to prison.

North Range Behavioral Health has a program which has operated for over 4 years, that works directly with offenders.  It’s called BASIC, or Behavioral Alternative Services In Community.  The program’s primary mission is to reduce recidivism, or as we like to say, “keep the heads off the beds.”  BASIC assists as many as 150 offenders annually and works closely with agencies such as the Parole Department, Probation, the District Attorney and Public Defender’s Office.  We draw on as many resources as necessary to help offenders stabilize their lives and move to a more “pro-social” existence.  BASIC is funded in part by the state, (Senate Bill 97). 

Once referred to BASIC, the offender can expect to meet with staff trained in mental health and substance abuse.  Peer Specialists, clients who have successfully completed their personal treatment and have subsequently been trained to help their peers, are also a part of the treatment team at BASIC.  The majority of our clients have co-occurring issues and therefore need assistance with both their emotional health and drug and/or alcohol use.  Through the use of individual therapy, group therapy, case management, and medication, an offender in treatment has a significant opportunity to become a successful member of our community.

Various regional statistics indicate that 50% to 70% of offenders return to prison within three years of their release.  While it is true that not everyone referred to BASIC stays out of jail, 90% do successfully complete their treatment, get off parole, and move on with their lives.  A year in jail costs $28,000.  We celebrate the fact that although it costs $6000 a year to provide treatment through BASIC, therefore the savings to the community is $22,000 for every individual who does not return to jail.  The value of jail-diversion programs such as BASIC is evident.  Each offender who turns his or her life around means a productive member of the community, rather than a financial drain on our already financially-strapped community.

Anyone can make referrals to Pat Miller at 970-313-1126.       

This article was written by Dana Wellman, Program Director, BASIC.  It was previously published in the Greeley Tribune.