Returning Citizens Survival Guide

Contact

The Returning Citizen's

Survival Guide

Bulk Order

order

Moving is considered one of the most stressful times in a person’s life.

Moving from prison back to life as a citizen adds a unique spin to the stress one experiences.

Individuals exiting the correctional system are inconsistently prepared for re-entry. Many are disconnected from the reality of how to live and lack knowledge of what resources are available.

A life of freedom is an achievement worth living for and requires a strong foundation to be built on. There are 8 fundamental needs in order to have a shot at creating a life of freedom.

Housing
Employment

Transportation
Food, clothing, hygiene

Documentation
Bank account

Health care
Support system

This book was written by a returning citizen for individuals preparing to be released from prison. However, this survival checklist is key for anyone going through a time of transition and change. These checklist items are the foundation for building a new life.

Use this book as a resource to help you prepare to navigate and overcome the barriers and obstacles of re-entry.

And let me be the first to say,

“Welcome home.”

Testimonials

Whether you are transitioning home after incarceration, are a professional working with incarcerated or formerly incarcerated citizens or if you are an elected official representing your community - you must read this book! The Returning Citizens Survival Guide is an invaluable resource for individuals facing the challenging journey of re-entry into society after incarceration . Patka's compassionate and comprehensive advice provides a roadmap for navigating the myriad of barriers and obstacles that formerly incarcerated individuals often encounter. With a keen understanding of the unique challenges faced by returning citizens, Patka offers practical guidance on securing housing, employment, and social support, all while emphasizing personal growth and self-empowerment. This book is an indispensable tool for anyone seeking to make a successful transition from incarceration to a brighter, more hopeful future.

- Stefanie Siebold

The Returning Citizens Survival Guide is a beacon of hope, a practical roadmap that is deeply embedded in empathy and understanding. In today's fast-paced world, where second chances can be few and far between, this guide is a comprehensive resource that speaks volumes not just about the process of reintegration, but about the human spirit's indomitable will to progress and redeem itself. Every chapter, every piece of advice, resonates with the core truth that every individual deserves an opportunity to rebuild, relearn, and reintegrate.

This isn't just a manual; it's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit inspired by lived experience, offering not just steps but stories, not just guidelines but glimpses of hope. For those looking for a path forward, or for those who aim to help others find that path, The Returning Citizens Survival Guide is an essential read. It has left a profound impression on me and I'm certain it will do the same for many others.”

- Sam S.

Our nonprofit organization sited the first WorkSource Oregon Centers in two of our twelve state prisons. Through these centers we offer employment and training services to incarcerated people prior to and after release. One of the tools we equip each person with is a copy of the Returning Citizens Survival Guide by Frank Patka. We believe that workforce development is a team sport and requires the blending and braiding of services to launch people to career success, therefore we welcomed this additional resource to support job seekers who have been impacted by the criminal justice system.

- Heather Ficht, Executive Director of East Cascades Works

Thanks for the workbook it helped me out to know what I don’t want (to use) and a lot about myself I did not know! :)

- Adult in Custody

order

The Author

Frank Patka IV

Author of The Returning Citizen's Survival Guide

& Executive Director of Changing Patterns Inc.

In 2010, Frank C. Patka IV faced a pivotal moment in his life when he, at the age of 26, was convicted of Robbery II. He was sentenced to 70 months in prison under Oregon's Measure 11 "one strike and you're out" mandatory sentencing act.

After spending the summer in solitary confinement, Frank got a new counselor who became his mentor. His counselor, Mr. Morrison, worked with him for almost 2 years before Frank earned his transfer to minimum prison. While at minimum, Frank was part of organizing and developing a grassroots movement to influence prosocial communication in both staff and prisoners.

Following Frank’s release from prison in November 2015, he began speaking about prison reform and reduction of recidivism. He intentionally directed energy into rebuilding relationships with his family and friends, fostering a supportive network to aid in his journey towards becoming a productive member of society.

In December of 2017, with the help of strong community support, Frank Patka IV founded Changing Patterns for the purpose of connecting returning citizens to employment opportunities, education, and community resources.

In February 2020, Changing Patterns launched its first mentorship program, only to be faced with its biggest challenge yet - a global pandemic. During this worldwide pause, Frank wrote The Returning Citizen’s Survival Guide - a resource for navigating the barriers and obstacles of re-entry from incarceration. The book was crafted to not only provide practical advice on necessary logistics, but to spark inspiration and hope.

With the help of close friend, Ryan McCrone, the book was published and Changing Patterns resumed operations. The team is now working to empower returning citizens to develop the behaviors and skills required to build character, self-reliance, and self-worth.

Learn more about Changing Patterns Inc.