Expanded GED Literacy in Regional Jails. The purpose of this initiative is to build regional databases of qualified volunteer GED providers and instructors amenable to serving in Virginia jail system with the intended outcome of reducing recidivism, and subsequently, contributing to safer communities and neighborhoods. National data suggests that 80% of persons without a high school education or GED can expect to be incarcerated during their lifetime. According to the National Governors Association Center for Best Practices, more than 52% of Virginia’s prisoners do not have a high school diploma, and a recent article on the Bureau of Justice Statistics [BJS] website places that figure at 68%. Additionally, virtually all sources suggest that not only is the crime rate reduced with a high school diploma or GED; but the average person can expect a significantly greater income earned during their lifetime. The data overwhelming indicates that the likelihood of gaining employment in the first place favors the person with his diploma or GED certification. While Virginia mandates GED literacy access to certain segment of its detained youth population, very few jails provide all inmates access to GED instruction. The Virginia Reentry Initiative purposes to build regional databases of qualified, volunteer instructors and literacy organizations to achieve this goal, at virtually no additional cost to the jail administration.   "To continue doing the same thing and expect a different result is insanity"   For information on seminars or workshops in your area: Call Reverend Claude Gunn at (434) 528-0435 or email gunn52@verizon.net