Understanding First Step Act Programs at FCI Waseca: What's Available for Women

FCI Waseca offers a Bureau of Prisons program called "Assert Yourself for Female Offenders." It's a women-focused, evidence-based program built around practicing pro-social assertiveness skills. Participants work through homework assignments and structured interactions with other group members and a facilitator.

Who Must Deliver

• ✓ Ask whether “Assert Yourself for Female Offenders” is being delivered in a way that counts for credit (the BOP ties credit to program fidelity, meaning it has to be run as designed).
• ✓ Social Worker
• ✓ Special Populations Program Coordinator
• ✓ Unit Team staff

The BOP uses a risk assessment tool called PATTERN as part of the First Step Act system. PATTERN classifies each person as high, medium, low, or minimum risk of recidivism. In plain terms, it's how the BOP gauges someone's likelihood of reoffending after release and helps determine how programming and reentry planning should be prioritized.

First Step Time Credits (FTCs) are not automatic for everyone in federal custody. FTCs apply only to people convicted in Federal District Court. They do not apply to military prisoners, state boarders, people convicted in D.C. Superior Court, or people with a final order of deportation.

Families Support

• ✓ Encourage your loved one to ask her Unit Team what First Step Act programs are currently running and what she needs to do to get on a waitlist.
• ✓ Suggest she keep a simple record for herself of program names, dates attended, and who facilitated (helpful if she has to ask questions later).
• ✓ If she is working toward time credits, remind her to ask whether the specific class counts for credit for her case, not just whether the class exists.
• ✓ Focus on follow-through. Showing up consistently and completing homework (when assigned) often matters as much as signing up.

1. Ask the Unit Team for the current list: Programs and schedules can change, so your loved one should request the most up-to-date info inside the institution.
2. Confirm who is facilitating: For credit-based programs, staff role matters. Have her ask which department or staff position is delivering the sessions.
3. Verify whether it counts for her: Eligibility for First Step Time Credits depends on the person’s case, not just the facility’s offerings.
4. Re-check after moves or schedule changes: A housing change, lockdown, or staffing shift can interrupt groups. A quick re-check helps avoid missed opportunities.