Introduction

  • Getting out of jail can be a significant change.
  • You might feel alone, but you’re not.
  • It’s time to build a team of people who care about you.
  • This is called a support system.
  • Let’s talk about how to make one that works for you.

Family First

  • Family can be a great start. They know you, and they often want to help.
  • Talk to them. Tell them about your plans and how they can help.
  • Be honest. If things are hard, it’s okay to say so.
  • Listen to them, too. They have feelings and ideas that matter.
  • Plan fun family times. It makes everyone feel good.

Friends Who Care

  • Old friends might still be there. Reach out and catch up.
  • Make new friends. Look for people who like the same things you do.
  • Be picky. Good friends should make you feel happy, not sad or mad.
  • Help your friends, and they will help you. It works both ways.
  • Laugh and have fun with your friends. It’s good for your heart.

People at Work

  • Jobs are not just for money. You can make friends there too.
  • Be friendly. Say “hi” and ask people about their day.
  • Work hard. People like being around someone who does their job well.
  • Join work events. It’s a chance to know people better.
  • Be on time and reliable. It makes you a good teammate.

Groups That Help

  • There are groups just for people who got out of jail. They understand what you’re going through.
  • Go to meetings. You’ll meet people who are like you.
  • Be brave and talk in the group. Sharing helps everyone.
  • Help in the group. You can make coffee or set up chairs.
  • Keep going to the group. It gets more accessible and more helpful.

Learning and Growing Together

  • Join a class or workshop. It’s a place to meet people and learn new things.
  • Share what you learn. When you talk about new ideas, you and your friends grow smarter.
  • Set goals with a buddy. It’s like a two-person team cheering each other on.
  • Teach others. If you know how to do something well, show it to someone else.
  • Celebrate learning. When you or a friend learns something new, do something fun to celebrate.

Giving Back to the Community

  • Volunteering is a way to meet people who like helping, too.
  • When you help others, you feel good inside. It’s like a happiness boost.
  • Find a cause you care about. It could be animals, parks, or helping other people.
  • Giving back makes your community better. It’s like planting seeds that grow into good things for everyone.
  • Say thank you when someone helps you. Gratitude makes the community stronger.

Building a support system is like planting a garden.

  • It starts small, but with care, it grows.
  • Water it with kindness, pull out the weeds of bad influences, and give it plenty of sunshine with positive actions.
  • Before you know it, you’ll have a garden full of people who help you grow.
  • And remember, you’re not alone.
  • There are lots of hands ready to help you build a solid and happy life.