Elsie Dunn and West House Parolee Service Center
Elsie Dunn and West House are residential community based reentry programs for low-risk offenders released from prison and on parole. Since 1976 these programs have provided men the tools to aid in their success after release from prison. During their 120-day to 1-year stay, the men receive training on substance abuse, job search and placement, anger and stress management, victim awareness, and life skills. The programs help to secure employment and housing for all participants. The programs are designed to offer parolees the support, knowledge and skills needed to reintegrate into mainstream society, making positive contributions and avoid repeating criminal behavior. Both facilities total 120 beds and serve over 600 men annually.   Over 80% of the participants have housing and employment before they are released. 

Project Choice
Project Choice is a collaboration between VOABA and the City of Oakland's Measure Y initiative.  This program offers hope, support, services and accountability to young offenders returning to the Oakland community.  The program provides pre-release services and intensive individual and group counseling to young adult (18-30) prisoners returning to Oakland in order to reduce recidivism. Project Choice also provides intensive support services - both pre- and post-release. The program serves 120 clients, in any given quarter.