It is difficult to compare prerelease programs due to substantial differences in program duration, variation in types of services provided, and variation in characteristics of target populations. Further, there are few research findings dealing with the effectiveness of institution-based prerelease programs. There is evidence that the most effective prerelease help includes aid in finding employment and the provision of information on parole regulations and practical steps to take in facilitating community adjustment. Peer counseling appears to be a helpful component of prerelease programs. The involvement of line staff, such as corrections officers, deserves further study. Preparing inmates for postrelease family relationships is treated by prerelease centers in a variety of ways. Issues of family involvement and family counseling in prerelease programs has yet to be carefully reviewed in the release preparation literature. The Community Reintegration Project, conducted by the University of Maryland Social Work School, is the only major project that has dealt with this issue. Operating on the assumption that most offenders leaving prison have some family in the community, the project expanded its case services to these families, linking them with appropriate social service agencies. A total of 56 footnotes are listed. (Author summary modified)