THE EDUCATION AND
EMPLOYMENT MINISTRY
Supporting those who have been impacted by the criminal legal system.
The Education and Employment Ministry, also known as TEEM, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to breaking cycles of incarceration and poverty through education, personal development and work readiness training.
TEEM takes a three-pronged approach to breaking cycles of incarceration and poverty in Oklahoma by providing individuals with education, social services, and job training and placement. We holistically prepare our participants for employment by incorporating mentorship, life skills training and confidence building into our program. By giving a hand up, we help our participants refine their skills and achieve their goals.
RE:defined
Meet the incredible people TEEM serves:
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Harold "Wayne" A.
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Maria L.
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Thomas B.
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Terry H.
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Daniel M.
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Nicole R.
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Don C.
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Stephanie C.
Want to join the TEEM?
Volunteers make TEEM possible!
Help us organize clothing, food, and hygiene donations, build resumes in the computer lab, pickup food, and so much more!
Sign up for a volunteer orientation for more information on how to get involved and the various volunteer opportunities available.
Learn More About TEEM Programming
THE PRETRIAL RELEASE INITIATIVE
One of the first of its kind in pretrial release programs, the Oklahoma County Public Defender/TEEM Pretrial Release Initiative collaborates with judges, the District Attorneys office, and the Oklahoma County Jail to secure release for eligible participants who are unable to afford their bail. A detailed plan of action that includes accountability, case management services, stable housing options, transportation, treatment connectivity, and employment assistance is developed in order to secure an OR or conditional bond.
By addressing obstacles at the earliest contact point, the Pretrial Release Initiative aims to prevent future involvement in the system and equip participants with the resources needed for success.
OKLAHOMA COUNTY COMMUNITY SENTENCING
Oklahoma County Community Sentencing is a court-ordered diversion program that provides in-depth case management services, substance abuse and mental health treatment opportunities, job preparedness and educational services, and direct service aid to program participants. As an alternative to prison or jail time, the Oklahoma County Community Sentencing program is intended to create positive changes and rehabilitative services rather than incarceration. A true community collaboration, Oklahoma County Community Sentencing partners with over a dozen mental health and substance abuse service providers.
REENTRY SERVICES
Individuals who have been impacted by incarceration are parents, family members, fellow Oklahomans and future employees who can make positive contributions to the community. While participating in Reentry Services, those reentering the community build resumes, establish healthy relationships, improve communication skills, obtain financial literacy training, and learn how to resolve conflicts. These skills help women and men involved in the criminal justice system build a foundation for a clear, rewarding path to meaningful employment, pro-social lifestyles and self-sufficiency.
Through the culinary program, TEEM partners with the Oklahoma Department of Corrections, the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education, and the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma in order to provide transition planning, hands-on employment training, and direct services to those transitioning back into our community.
VETERANS INITIATIVE
TEEM is proud to serve those who served our country. Through a partnership with Boeing, the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs, and the Oklahoma Department of Corrections, TEEM provides direct resources and connects justice-involved veterans to eligible benefits.
“There is no such thing as a spare Oklahoman.”
— Kris Steele, Executive Director