Madison-area Urban Ministry's Returning Prisoner Simulation gives participants an “up close” view of what it’s like to come home from prison. It inserts participants into realistic scenarios and lifelike struggles that formerly incarcerated community members are likely to encounter.

This workshop begins with an introduction to the principles of Restorative Justice and explains the basic needs of returning prisoners. Each participant receives a mock profile that describes the life of a former prisoner and they take on the role of that character during a brief role-play. They must complete fundamental life tasks, such as finding housing and a job, or simply cashing a check.

By incorporating the restorative practice of storytelling, the simulation opens a glimpse into the sense of overwhelming frustration that a newly-released prisoner may feel. Immediately after the role-play, a facilitated debriefing by the simulation Director allows participants to share their immediate reactions.

The simulation concludes with a panel of formerly incarcerated people who each share their own re-entry journey and then answer questions from participants.

Please register to join us. We are asking participants to donate anywhere from $5-$50 to cover the cost of registration. To participate for free, please register to fill the role of a community worker here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c054ca4aa2da1f85-returning1

Note: This simulation takes place at Temple Beth El in Madison, Wisconsin. Public events at Temple Beth El require police presence for security, per Temple Beth El's policy. Please be aware that armed police officers in uniform will be present at the event.