Supporting Success: The Five Pillars of DOP

The New York City Department of Probation (DOP) is guided by five key pillars that help support the success and well-being of people on probation: Recidivism, Employment, Education, Housing, and Mental Health. These areas work together to address root causes, reduce repeat offenses, and create opportunities for a better future.

Recidivism

We look closely at re-arrests to understand patterns and what might be leading someone back into the justice system. By reviewing each case, even after it’s closed, we learn how to improve support and outcomes for our clients.

Employment

Having meaningful employment can make a big difference. When people have income, they’re less likely to feel stuck or make harmful choices. That’s why we help clients access job training and employment programs that lead to careers in fields such as commercial driving, emergency response, barbering, and much more.

Education

Everyone deserves access to education. Whether it’s finishing high school, getting a GED, or going to college or trade school, we support clients in reaching their goals. We believe in meeting our clients where they are, working with each client to identify personalized educational goals and to make a plan that turns these goals into reality. Education helps with job opportunities and gives people the tools to move forward in life.

Housing

A safe, stable place to live is a basic need which often depends on other factors like having a job or being in school. By strengthening other pillars, such as employment and education, we help clients maintain their current housing or obtain new housing opportunities. We work with partner agencies to connect clients to housing programs and help them maintain or move toward permanent, secure housing.

Mental Health

Mental health looks different for everyone, but it impacts every other aspect of a person’s life. Many of our clients live with mental health challenges. We work with local providers to help clients identify their unique needs and to make sure that clients can access care and support tailored to these needs.

These five pillars are at the center of everything we do. By focusing on the whole person, we help build stronger individuals, families, and communities.