Recidivism refers to a person’s relapse into criminal behavior. It’s measured by criminal acts that resulted in rearrest, reconviction or return to prison with or without a new sentence during a three-year period following the prisoner's release. For a system meant to rehabilitate, an alarming number of incarcerated individuals are repeat offenders and returning inmates, these overwhelming numbers correspond to rising costs that strain the criminal justice system and the economy. More than taxpayer burdens and overcrowded prisons, the effects of a broken criminal justice system are destroying communities and families. Reducing recidivism rates lessens the burden on incarceration systems, taxpayers, communities, and families. By investing in the needs of individuals exiting the corrections system, we can ensure people return to their communities equipped and motivated to contribute to society in sustainable, mutually beneficial ways. Organizations across the country are serving the prison population in creative, long-term ways to help empower individuals to successfully transition back to their communities, while also lowering recidivism rates. By focusing on educating, investing in, and caring for the person, these groups make a lasting difference in individuals, families, and communities. Prison education is key to giving inmates a chance at rehabilitation so they return to their communities more educated and prepared for the workforce than when they left. Many enter the system at a young age from poor communities, underperforming schools, and hopeless situations. The opportunity to receive an education while in prison provides inmates a chance to change the trajectory of their lives. Effective re-entry services, from educational resources to job training, help fill the gaps left by the criminal justice system.