Abstract
In response to an increasing crime rate after WWII, the United States began developing programs which were designed to assist in improving the lives of those living in poor and deprived conditions. In order to maintain accountability of these programs and reduce fraudulent funding, program evaluations were introduced. The present evaluation focuses on a program called Ascend Life Skills. Upon completion of the program, Ascend participants were asked if they would be willing to participate in an interview with Dr. Jennie Singer regarding the challenges and support offenders face in the community. A group of comparison subjects recruited through Sacramento County Probation Department and Sacramento Sheriffs Department were also interviewed and asked the same questions. Results suggested that the Ascend life skills program had helped participants learn new skills, find employment, maintain pro-social networks, and increase their self-esteem.