People sentenced under community supervision — probation and parole — have the capacity to change, enhance their lives, and thrive, but may require more intentional support and instruction to do so. Many community supervision evidence-based practices (EBPs) help community supervision staff given individuals the intentional support and instruction they need.

However, many of these EBPs require staff first build rapport with individuals, offer empathy and compassion, and understand individuals as complex and unique. At their core, many of these EBPs require a safe and trusting environment to maximize their effectiveness. However, even experienced officers struggle to practice the more nuanced skills of engagement and rapport building needed to help people change their behavior. It is clear from the research that additional support is needed for community supervision staff to delivery interventions designed for behavioral change.

Through a cooperative agreement with the National Institute of Corrections and in partnership with path8 Productions, JSP is developing a series of videos to help community supervision staff deliver evidence-based practices and interventions more successfully. Skills packages include instructional videos, interactive guides, and supplemental materials for community supervision staff.