DCF awards grant to River Valley Resources

(LAWRENCEBURG, Ind.) – The Dearborn Community Foundation is awarding a $1,000 grant to River Valley Resources. 

The grant is part of the foundation’s annual initiative where each board member selects an organization to support. 

DCF board member Michael Hollenbeck chose River Valley Resources to support the education being provided to adult and juvenile offenders. 

The funds will be used for educational supplies, classroom materials for student assessments, and testing costs related to adult education at the Dearborn County Jail and the county’s juvenile center.

“Education is one of the most effective tools to prevent re-offending,” said Hollenbeck. “Studies consistently show that incarcerated people who participate in educational programs are significantly less likely to return to incarceration than those who do not.”

He added, “A criminal record makes finding a job difficult, but having GEDS, vocational certifications, or college credits help open doors.”  

In his role as a criminal defense attorney, Hollenbeck is aware of the positive and transformational work that River Valley Resources has been providing to the local incarcerated population for some time. 

“And it should also be said that education doesn't just affect the individual,” said Hollenbeck. “It has a ripple effect. Educated individuals are more likely to support and encourage education for their children, helping to break cycles of poverty and incarceration.”

For more information on the program, visit rivervalleyresources.com.