FCS first established its expertise in diversion programs concerning bad checks, and has provided them in many jurisdictions in Minnesota since 2000 and Wisconsin since 2006.
The check diversion program supports many entities.
- It supports the district attorney’s office and law enforcement by contacting offenders and aggregating and investigating worthless checks.
- It supports merchants, financial institutions and residents with restitution and prevention of financial theft and fraud.
- It supports offenders by providing financial management classes and tools for them to better understand and control their finances. Best of all, there is no cost for the program to counties, cities, merchants or taxpayers.
FCS operates check diversion programs that are specific to each state.
- Currently, FCS has separate operations and offices in both Minnesota and Wisconsin.
- This equips employees with the proper training and knowledge on county specific requirements and state laws.
FCS takes the educational component of its check diversion program very seriously.
- The recidivism rate of class participants is less than one percent.
- Offenders are required to do more than attend the classes and listen to lectures.
- Instructors not only teach new financial planning techniques, but also utilize actual financial tools (like budgets and check registers) to successfully improve the attendees’ financial practices and habits.
The FCS check diversion program benefits everyone.
- The no-cost service is provided through the district attorney’s office. Merchants receive support services and 100 percent return of the face value of checks. Bank fees are paid. The community is educated about the program by FCS through meetings and other communications channels.
- Offenders receive the educational support and tools they need to learn and maintain good financial habits for the future.