Information Detail
One of LASD's exemplary programs is Maximizing Education Reaching Individual Transformation, also known as the MERIT program. This program is overseen by the Education Based Incarceration Bureau (EBI) and is facilitated by volunteers, professional instructors, and LASD's Deputies and Custody Assistants who embrace a belief that incarcerated individuals can invoke significant change in their lives.
The MERIT program consists of three dynamic components that aid the success of this program. At the core of MERIT are Life Skills. This is the first component and is comprised of five different focused areas built to enhance cognitive thinking skills in aspects such as; personal relationships, parenting, anger management, drug education and spiritual growth. Second, the Veterans Program is designed to re-direct previous United States Military Veterans to re-establish their pride within themselves, while providing them with a new direction in life. The last component is the IMPACT program, which is attended by inmates who are sentenced to incarceration and court-ordered programming through Los Angeles County Drug Courts. Finally, IMPACT is designed specifically for these incarcerated persons to obtain a "clean slate" and helps them understand that drugs aren't the answer to life's challenges, and that they should make amends with their past in order to create a better and brighter future.
EBI's MERIT program started in 2006 at Pitchess Detention Center, South Facility, operating three program dorms (IMPACT, Veterans, and Domestic Violence). Since then, the MERIT Program has expanded county-wide to all seven custody facilities in providing programs within a classroom setting in order to benefit all inmates.
Contact Information:
Education Based Incarceration Bureau - (213) 473-2999
mailto:ebi@lasd.org
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