How Governments and Orgs Can Create Successful Re-Entry Programs - casebook

Re-entry is a critical issue facing the criminal justice system today. As a social worker, you know the challenges formerly incarcerated individuals face when trying to re-enter society. From finding housing and employment to overcoming the stigma, there are several obstacles hindering a smooth transition. But with the right support and resources, many can turn their lives around and become productive members of their communities. That's where well-designed re-entry programs come in. Re-entry is a critical issue facing the criminal justice system today. As a social worker, you know the challenges formerly incarcerated individuals face when trying to re-enter society. From finding housing and employment to overcoming the stigma, there are several obstacles hindering a smooth transition. But with the right support and resources, many can turn their lives around and become productive members of their communities. That's where well-designed re-entry programs come in. Re-entry is a critical issue facing the criminal justice system today. As a social worker, you know the challenges formerly incarcerated individuals face when trying to re-enter society. From finding housing and employment to overcoming the stigma, there are several obstacles hindering a smooth transition. But with the right support and resources, many can turn their lives around and become productive members of their communities. That's where well-designed re-entry programs come in. Re-entry is a critical issue facing the criminal justice system today. As a social worker, you know the challenges formerly incarcerated individuals face when trying to re-enter society. From finding housing and employment to overcoming the stigma, there are several obstacles hindering a smooth transition. But with the right support and resources, many can turn their lives around and become productive members of their communities. That's where well-designed re-entry programs come in. Re-entry is a critical issue facing the criminal justice system today. As a social worker, you know the challenges formerly incarcerated individuals face when trying to re-enter society. From finding housing and employment to overcoming the stigma, there are several obstacles hindering a smooth transition. But with the right support and resources, many can turn their lives around and become productive members of their communities. That's where well-designed re-entry programs come in. Re-entry is a critical issue facing the criminal justice system today. As a social worker, you know the challenges formerly incarcerated individuals face when trying to re-enter society. From finding housing and employment to overcoming the stigma, there are several obstacles hindering a smooth transition. But with the right support and resources, many can turn their lives around and become productive members of their communities. That's where well-designed re-entry programs come in. Re-entry is a critical issue facing the criminal justice system today. As a social worker, you know the challenges formerly incarcerated individuals face when trying to re-enter society. From finding housing and employment to overcoming the stigma, there are several obstacles hindering a smooth transition. But with the right support and resources, many can turn their lives around and become productive members of their communities. That's where well-designed re-entry programs come in. Re-entry is a critical issue facing the criminal justice system today. As a social worker, you know the challenges formerly incarcerated individuals face when trying to re-enter society. From finding housing and employment to overcoming the stigma, there are several obstacles hindering a smooth transition. But with the right support and resources, many can turn their lives around and become productive members of their communities. That's where well-designed re-entry programs come in. Re-entry is a critical issue facing the criminal justice system today. As a social worker, you know the challenges formerly incarcerated individuals face when trying to re-enter society. From finding housing and employment to overcoming the stigma, there are several obstacles hindering a smooth transition. But with the right support and resources, many can turn their lives around and become productive members of their communities. That's where well-designed re-entry programs come in. Re-entry is a critical issue facing the criminal justice system today. As a social worker, you know the challenges formerly incarcerated individuals face when trying to re-enter society. From finding housing and employment to overcoming the stigma, there are several obstacles hindering a smooth transition. But with the right support and resources, many can turn their lives around and become productive members of their communities. That's where well-designed re-entry programs come in.

Re-entry refers to the process of transitioning from incarceration back into society. It's a critical juncture that can determine whether someone successfully reintegrates or ends up back behind bars. In the U.S., more than 600,000 people are released from state and federal prisons each year, while another 9 million cycle through local jails. Unfortunately, within three years of release, two out of three people are rearrested, and more than 50% are incarcerated again. But these sobering statistics don't have to be the norm. When done right, re-entry programs can empower people to change their lives and contribute to their communities. In fact, effective re-entry programs can reduce recidivism, enhance public safety, and save taxpayer dollars. Re-entry refers to the process of transitioning from incarceration back into society. It's a critical juncture that can determine whether someone successfully reintegrates or ends up back behind bars. In the U.S., more than 600,000 people are released from state and federal prisons each year, while another 9 million cycle through local jails. Unfortunately, within three years of release, two out of three people are rearrested, and more than 50% are incarcerated again. But these sobering statistics don't have to be the norm. When done right, re-entry programs can empower people to change their lives and contribute to their communities. In fact, effective re-entry programs can reduce recidivism, enhance public safety, and save taxpayer dollars. Re-entry refers to the process of transitioning from incarceration back into society. It's a critical juncture that can determine whether someone successfully reintegrates or ends up back behind bars. In the U.S., more than 600,000 people are released from state and federal prisons each year, while another 9 million cycle through local jails. Unfortunately, within three years of release, two out of three people are rearrested, and more than 50% are incarcerated again. But these sobering statistics don't have to be the norm. When done right, re-entry programs can empower people to change their lives and contribute to their communities. In fact, effective re-entry programs can reduce recidivism, enhance public safety, and save taxpayer dollars. Re-entry refers to the process of transitioning from incarceration back into society. It's a critical juncture that can determine whether someone successfully reintegrates or ends up back behind bars. In the U.S., more than 600,000 people are released from state and federal prisons each year, while another 9 million cycle through local jails. Unfortunately, within three years of release, two out of three people are rearrested, and more than 50% are incarcerated again. But these sobering statistics don't have to be the norm. When done right, re-entry programs can empower people to change their lives and contribute to their communities. In fact, effective re-entry programs can reduce recidivism, enhance public safety, and save taxpayer dollars. Re-entry refers to the process of transitioning from incarceration back into society. It's a critical juncture that can determine whether someone successfully reintegrates or ends up back behind bars. In the U.S., more than 600,000 people are released from state and federal prisons each year, while another 9 million cycle through local jails. Unfortunately, within three years of release, two out of three people are rearrested, and more than 50% are incarcerated again. But these sobering statistics don't have to be the norm. When done right, re-entry programs can empower people to change their lives and contribute to their communities. In fact, effective re-entry programs can reduce recidivism, enhance public safety, and save taxpayer dollars. Re-entry refers to the process of transitioning from incarceration back into society. It's a critical juncture that can determine whether someone successfully reintegrates or ends up back behind bars. In the U.S., more than 600,000 people are released from state and federal prisons each year, while another 9 million cycle through local jails. Unfortunately, within three years of release, two out of three people are rearrested, and more than 50% are incarcerated again. But these sobering statistics don't have to be the norm. When done right, re-entry programs can empower people to change their lives and contribute to their communities. In fact, effective re-entry programs can reduce recidivism, enhance public safety, and save taxpayer dollars. Re-entry refers to the process of transitioning from incarceration back into society. It's a critical juncture that can determine whether someone successfully reintegrates or ends up back behind bars. In the U.S., more than 600,000 people are released from state and federal prisons each year, while another 9 million cycle through local jails. Unfortunately, within three years of release, two out of three people are rearrested, and more than 50% are incarcerated again. But these sobering statistics don't have to be the norm. When done right, re-entry programs can empower people to change their lives and contribute to their communities. In fact, effective re-entry programs can reduce recidivism, enhance public safety, and save taxpayer dollars. Re-entry refers to the process of transitioning from incarceration back into society. It's a critical juncture that can determine whether someone successfully reintegrates or ends up back behind bars. In the U.S., more than 600,000 people are released from state and federal prisons each year, while another 9 million cycle through local jails. Unfortunately, within three years of release, two out of three people are rearrested, and more than 50% are incarcerated again. But these sobering statistics don't have to be the norm. When done right, re-entry programs can empower people to change their lives and contribute to their communities. In fact, effective re-entry programs can reduce recidivism, enhance public safety, and save taxpayer dollars. Re-entry refers to the process of transitioning from incarceration back into society. It's a critical juncture that can determine whether someone successfully reintegrates or ends up back behind bars. In the U.S., more than 600,000 people are released from state and federal prisons each year, while another 9 million cycle through local jails. Unfortunately, within three years of release, two out of three people are rearrested, and more than 50% are incarcerated again. But these sobering statistics don't have to be the norm. When done right, re-entry programs can empower people to change their lives and contribute to their communities. In fact, effective re-entry programs can reduce recidivism, enhance public safety, and save taxpayer dollars. Re-entry refers to the process of transitioning from incarceration back into society. It's a critical juncture that can determine whether someone successfully reintegrates or ends up back behind bars. In the U.S., more than 600,000 people are released from state and federal prisons each year, while another 9 million cycle through local jails. Unfortunately, within three years of release, two out of three people are rearrested, and more than 50% are incarcerated again. But these sobering statistics don't have to be the norm. When done right, re-entry programs can empower people to change their lives and contribute to their communities. In fact, effective re-entry programs can reduce recidivism, enhance public safety, and save taxpayer dollars.

To create an effective re-entry program, you first need to understand the multilayered challenges that individuals face upon release: Housing instability, unemployment, lack of education: Many individuals lose their housing while incarcerated and struggle to find landlords who are willing to rent to them afterward. Incarceration also disrupts employment and erodes job skills. Criminal records also severely limit job prospects, as many employers are unwilling to hire formerly incarcerated individuals. Substance abuse, mental health issues, trauma: A large number of incarcerated individuals struggle with addiction, mental illness, and past trauma, which is further worsened by the experience of imprisonment. Without effective treatment, they're prone to relapse and recidivism. Stigma, discrimination, limited social support: The social stigma of having a criminal record follows people long after they've served their time. Many also have strained family and social ties after years away. This lack of social capital makes the re-entry process much harder and can derail the entire transition. To create an effective re-entry program, you first need to understand the multilayered challenges that individuals face upon release: Housing instability, unemployment, lack of education: Many individuals lose their housing while incarcerated and struggle to find landlords who are willing to rent to them afterward. Incarceration also disrupts employment and erodes job skills. Criminal records also severely limit job prospects, as many employers are unwilling to hire formerly incarcerated individuals. Substance abuse, mental health issues, trauma: A large number of incarcerated individuals struggle with addiction, mental illness, and past trauma, which is further worsened by the experience of imprisonment. Without effective treatment, they're prone to relapse and recidivism. Stigma, discrimination, limited social support: The social stigma of having a criminal record follows people long after they've served their time. Many also have strained family and social ties after years away. This lack of social capital makes the re-entry process much harder and can derail the entire transition. To create an effective re-entry program, you first need to understand the multilayered challenges that individuals face upon release: Housing instability, unemployment, lack of education: Many individuals lose their housing while incarcerated and struggle to find landlords who are willing to rent to them afterward. Incarceration also disrupts employment and erodes job skills. Criminal records also severely limit job prospects, as many employers are unwilling to hire formerly incarcerated individuals. Substance abuse, mental health issues, trauma: A large number of incarcerated individuals struggle with addiction, mental illness, and past trauma, which is further worsened by the experience of imprisonment. Without effective treatment, they're prone to relapse and recidivism. Stigma, discrimination, limited social support: The social stigma of having a criminal record follows people long after they've served their time. Many also have strained family and social ties after years away. This lack of social capital makes the re-entry process much harder and can derail the entire transition. To create an effective re-entry program, you first need to understand the multilayered challenges that individuals face upon release: Housing instability, unemployment, lack of education: Many individuals lose their housing while incarcerated and struggle to find landlords who are willing to rent to them afterward. Incarceration also disrupts employment and erodes job skills. Criminal records also severely limit job prospects, as many employers are unwilling to hire formerly incarcerated individuals. Substance abuse, mental health issues, trauma: A large number of incarcerated individuals struggle with addiction, mental illness, and past trauma, which is further worsened by the experience of imprisonment. Without effective treatment, they're prone to relapse and recidivism. Stigma, discrimination, limited social support: The social stigma of having a criminal record follows people long after they've served their time. Many also have strained family and social ties after years away. This lack of social capital makes the re-entry process much harder and can derail the entire transition. To create an effective re-entry program, you first need to understand the multilayered challenges that individuals face upon release: Housing instability, unemployment, lack of education: Many individuals lose their housing while incarcerated and struggle to find landlords who are willing to rent to them afterward. Incarceration also disrupts employment and erodes job skills. Criminal records also severely limit job prospects, as many employers are unwilling to hire formerly incarcerated individuals. Substance abuse, mental health issues, trauma: A large number of incarcerated individuals struggle with addiction, mental illness, and past trauma, which is further worsened by the experience of imprisonment. Without effective treatment, they're prone to relapse and recidivism. Stigma, discrimination, limited social support: The social stigma of having a criminal record follows people long after they've served their time. Many also have strained family and social ties after years away. This lack of social capital makes the re-entry process much harder and can derail the entire transition. To create an effective re-entry program, you first need to understand the multilayered challenges that individuals face upon release: Housing instability, unemployment, lack of education: Many individuals lose their housing while incarcerated and struggle to find landlords who are willing to rent to them afterward. Incarceration also disrupts employment and erodes job skills. Criminal records also severely limit job prospects, as many employers are unwilling to hire formerly incarcerated individuals. Substance abuse, mental health issues, trauma: A large number of incarcerated individuals struggle with addiction, mental illness, and past trauma, which is further worsened by the experience of imprisonment. Without effective treatment, they're prone to relapse and recidivism. Stigma, discrimination, limited social support: The social stigma of having a criminal record follows people long after they've served their time. Many also have strained family and social ties after years away. This lack of social capital makes the re-entry process much harder and can derail the entire transition. To create an effective re-entry program, you first need to understand the multilayered challenges that individuals face upon release: Housing instability, unemployment, lack of education: Many individuals lose their housing while incarcerated and struggle to find landlords who are willing to rent to them afterward. Incarceration also disrupts employment and erodes job skills. Criminal records also severely limit job prospects, as many employers are unwilling to hire formerly incarcerated individuals. Substance abuse, mental health issues, trauma: A large number of incarcerated individuals struggle with addiction, mental illness, and past trauma, which is further worsened by the experience of imprisonment. Without effective treatment, they're prone to relapse and recidivism. Stigma, discrimination, limited social support: The social stigma of having a criminal record follows people long after they've served their time. Many also have strained family and social ties after years away. This lack of social capital makes the re-entry process much harder and can derail the entire transition. To create an effective re-entry program, you first need to understand the multilayered challenges that individuals face upon release: Housing instability, unemployment, lack of education: Many individuals lose their housing while incarcerated and struggle to find landlords who are willing to rent to them afterward. Incarceration also disrupts employment and erodes job skills. Criminal records also severely limit job prospects, as many employers are unwilling to hire formerly incarcerated individuals. Substance abuse, mental health issues, trauma: A large number of incarcerated individuals struggle with addiction, mental illness, and past trauma, which is further worsened by the experience of imprisonment. Without effective treatment, they're prone to relapse and recidivism. Stigma, discrimination, limited social support: The social stigma of having a criminal record follows people long after they've served their time. Many also have strained family and social ties after years away. This lack of social capital makes the re-entry process much harder and can derail the entire transition. To create an effective re-entry program, you first need to understand the multilayered challenges that individuals face upon release: Housing instability, unemployment, lack of education: Many individuals lose their housing while incarcerated and struggle to find landlords who are willing to rent to them afterward. Incarceration also disrupts employment and erodes job skills. Criminal records also severely limit job prospects, as many employers are unwilling to hire formerly incarcerated individuals. Substance abuse, mental health issues, trauma: A large number of incarcerated individuals struggle with addiction, mental illness, and past trauma, which is further worsened by the experience of imprisonment. Without effective treatment, they're prone to relapse and recidivism. Stigma, discrimination, limited social support: The social stigma of having a criminal record follows people long after they've served their time. Many also have strained family and social ties after years away. This lack of social capital makes the re-entry process much harder and can derail the entire transition. To create an effective re-entry program, you first need to understand the multilayered challenges that individuals face upon release: Housing instability, unemployment, lack of education: Many individuals lose their housing while incarcerated and struggle to find landlords who are willing to rent to them afterward. Incarceration also disrupts employment and erodes job skills. Criminal records also severely limit job prospects, as many employers are unwilling to hire formerly incarcerated individuals. Substance abuse, mental health issues, trauma: A large number of incarcerated individuals struggle with addiction, mental illness, and past trauma, which is further worsened by the experience of imprisonment. Without effective treatment, they're prone to relapse and recidivism. Stigma, discrimination, limited social support: The social stigma of having a criminal record follows people long after they've served their time. Many also have strained family and social ties after years away. This lack of social capital makes the re-entry process much harder and can derail the entire transition.

Improving re-entry outcomes isn't just about helping individuals get back on their feet. It's also critical for the community's well-being as a whole. Here's why: Reducing recidivism (the rate of reoffending): The more people are able to successfully reintegrate, the lower the rates of reoffending and reincarceration. For example, participation in Minnesota's EMPLOY program boasts a high success rate, reducing the risk of recidivism by up to 63%. Promoting public safety and community well-being: When formerly incarcerated individuals are able to find housing and jobs and lead stable lives, it strengthens the social fabric of the entire community. It reduces homelessness, unemployment, and generational cycles of poverty and incarceration. Restoring individuals to productive lives: With the right tools, those returning from prison can support themselves, care for their families, and contribute to society. This has ripple effects, as children with an incarcerated parent are much more likely to end up incarcerated themselves. Helping parents successfully re-enter society breaks this cycle. Improving re-entry outcomes isn't just about helping individuals get back on their feet. It's also critical for the community's well-being as a whole. Here's why: Reducing recidivism (the rate of reoffending): The more people are able to successfully reintegrate, the lower the rates of reoffending and reincarceration. For example, participation in Minnesota's EMPLOY program boasts a high success rate, reducing the risk of recidivism by up to 63%. Promoting public safety and community well-being: When formerly incarcerated individuals are able to find housing and jobs and lead stable lives, it strengthens the social fabric of the entire community. It reduces homelessness, unemployment, and generational cycles of poverty and incarceration. Restoring individuals to productive lives: With the right tools, those returning from prison can support themselves, care for their families, and contribute to society. This has ripple effects, as children with an incarcerated parent are much more likely to end up incarcerated themselves. Helping parents successfully re-enter society breaks this cycle. Improving re-entry outcomes isn't just about helping individuals get back on their feet. It's also critical for the community's well-being as a whole. Here's why: Reducing recidivism (the rate of reoffending): The more people are able to successfully reintegrate, the lower the rates of reoffending and reincarceration. For example, participation in Minnesota's EMPLOY program boasts a high success rate, reducing the risk of recidivism by up to 63%. Promoting public safety and community well-being: When formerly incarcerated individuals are able to find housing and jobs and lead stable lives, it strengthens the social fabric of the entire community. It reduces homelessness, unemployment, and generational cycles of poverty and incarceration. Restoring individuals to productive lives: With the right tools, those returning from prison can support themselves, care for their families, and contribute to society. This has ripple effects, as children with an incarcerated parent are much more likely to end up incarcerated themselves. Helping parents successfully re-enter society breaks this cycle. Improving re-entry outcomes isn't just about helping individuals get back on their feet. It's also critical for the community's well-being as a whole. Here's why: Reducing recidivism (the rate of reoffending): The more people are able to successfully reintegrate, the lower the rates of reoffending and reincarceration. For example, participation in Minnesota's EMPLOY program boasts a high success rate, reducing the risk of recidivism by up to 63%. Promoting public safety and community well-being: When formerly incarcerated individuals are able to find housing and jobs and lead stable lives, it strengthens the social fabric of the entire community. It reduces homelessness, unemployment, and generational cycles of poverty and incarceration. Restoring individuals to productive lives: With the right tools, those returning from prison can support themselves, care for their families, and contribute to society. This has ripple effects, as children with an incarcerated parent are much more likely to end up incarcerated themselves. Helping parents successfully re-enter society breaks this cycle. Improving re-entry outcomes isn't just about helping individuals get back on their feet. It's also critical for the community's well-being as a whole. Here's why: Reducing recidivism (the rate of reoffending): The more people are able to successfully reintegrate, the lower the rates of reoffending and reincarceration. For example, participation in Minnesota's EMPLOY program boasts a high success rate, reducing the risk of recidivism by up to 63%. Promoting public safety and community well-being: When formerly incarcerated individuals are able to find housing and jobs and lead stable lives, it strengthens the social fabric of the entire community. It reduces homelessness, unemployment, and generational cycles of poverty and incarceration. Restoring individuals to productive lives: With the right tools, those returning from prison can support themselves, care for their families, and contribute to society. This has ripple effects, as children with an incarcerated parent are much more likely to end up incarcerated themselves. Helping parents successfully re-enter society breaks this cycle. Improving re-entry outcomes isn't just about helping individuals get back on their feet. It's also critical for the community's well-being as a whole. Here's why: Reducing recidivism (the rate of reoffending): The more people are able to successfully reintegrate, the lower the rates of reoffending and reincarceration. For example, participation in Minnesota's EMPLOY program boasts a high success rate, reducing the risk of recidivism by up to 63%. Promoting public safety and community well-being: When formerly incarcerated individuals are able to find housing and jobs and lead stable lives, it strengthens the social fabric of the entire community. It reduces homelessness, unemployment, and generational cycles of poverty and incarceration. Restoring individuals to productive lives: With the right tools, those returning from prison can support themselves, care for their families, and contribute to society. This has ripple effects, as children with an incarcerated parent are much more likely to end up incarcerated themselves. Helping parents successfully re-enter society breaks this cycle. Improving re-entry outcomes isn't just about helping individuals get back on their feet. It's also critical for the community's well-being as a whole. Here's why: Reducing recidivism (the rate of reoffending): The more people are able to successfully reintegrate, the lower the rates of reoffending and reincarceration. For example, participation in Minnesota's EMPLOY program boasts a high success rate, reducing the risk of recidivism by up to 63%. Promoting public safety and community well-being: When formerly incarcerated individuals are able to find housing and jobs and lead stable lives, it strengthens the social fabric of the entire community. It reduces homelessness, unemployment, and generational cycles of poverty and incarceration. Restoring individuals to productive lives: With the right tools, those returning from prison can support themselves, care for their families, and contribute to society. This has ripple effects, as children with an incarcerated parent are much more likely to end up incarcerated themselves. Helping parents successfully re-enter society breaks this cycle. Improving re-entry outcomes isn't just about helping individuals get back on their feet. It's also critical for the community's well-being as a whole. Here's why: Reducing recidivism (the rate of reoffending): The more people are able to successfully reintegrate, the lower the rates of reoffending and reincarceration. For example, participation in Minnesota's EMPLOY program boasts a high success rate, reducing the risk of recidivism by up to 63%. Promoting public safety and community well-being: When formerly incarcerated individuals are able to find housing and jobs and lead stable lives, it strengthens the social fabric of the entire community. It reduces homelessness, unemployment, and generational cycles of poverty and incarceration. Restoring individuals to productive lives: With the right tools, those returning from prison can support themselves, care for their families, and contribute to society. This has ripple effects, as children with an incarcerated parent are much more likely to end up incarcerated themselves. Helping parents successfully re-enter society breaks this cycle. Improving re-entry outcomes isn't just about helping individuals get back on their feet. It's also critical for the community's well-being as a whole. Here's why: Reducing recidivism (the rate of reoffending): The more people are able to successfully reintegrate, the lower the rates of reoffending and reincarceration. For example, participation in Minnesota's EMPLOY program boasts a high success rate, reducing the risk of recidivism by up to 63%. Promoting public safety and community well-being: When formerly incarcerated individuals are able to find housing and jobs and lead stable lives, it strengthens the social fabric of the entire community. It reduces homelessness, unemployment, and generational cycles of poverty and incarceration. Restoring individuals to productive lives: With the right tools, those returning from prison can support themselves, care for their families, and contribute to society. This has ripple effects, as children with an incarcerated parent are much more likely to end up incarcerated themselves. Helping parents successfully re-enter society breaks this cycle. Improving re-entry outcomes isn't just about helping individuals get back on their feet. It's also critical for the community's well-being as a whole. Here's why: Reducing recidivism (the rate of reoffending): The more people are able to successfully reintegrate, the lower the rates of reoffending and reincarceration. For example, participation in Minnesota's EMPLOY program boasts a high success rate, reducing the risk of recidivism by up to 63%. Promoting public safety and community well-being: When formerly incarcerated individuals are able to find housing and jobs and lead stable lives, it strengthens the social fabric of the entire community. It reduces homelessness, unemployment, and generational cycles of poverty and incarceration. Restoring individuals to productive lives: With the right tools, those returning from prison can support themselves, care for their families, and contribute to society. This has ripple effects, as children with an incarcerated parent are much more likely to end up incarcerated themselves. Helping parents successfully re-enter society breaks this cycle.

So what does it take to design a re-entry program that works? The most effective programs share some common elements. Pre-Release Planning Re-entry can't just start on the day of release. Careful planning and support need to begin well before someone walks out of prison. This involves the following. Needs Assessments and Individualized Case Plans To provide targeted support, re-entry planning should start with a comprehensive assessment of an individual's risks and needs. It may consider their education, job skills, substance abuse, and mental health. This informs an individualized case plan to guide successful, personalized programming. Connecting With Community Resources (Housing, Employment, Healthcare) Pre-release is the time to start building a bridge between prison and the community. This means connecting individuals with local service providers, employers, and housing options. Community partnerships and recidivism reduction are closely linked. For example, some programs have community case managers meet with participants before their release to line up post-release support. Addressing Education and Skills Gaps Many people enter prison with low levels of education and few job skills. Providing opportunities to gain credentials, complete degrees, and undergo vocational training while incarcerated makes them much more employable upon release. For example, the Last Mile, a program that trains individuals in computer coding behind bars, has a 0% recidivism rate among its graduates. Post-Release Support The first days and weeks after release are a vulnerable time. Immediate access to support is critical for successful re-entry. Important post-release services include the following. Housing Assistance A lack of stable housing is one of the biggest barriers to successful re-entry. Programs that provide transitional housing or help with finding affordable rentals are key. In Ohio, Returning Home-Ohio (RHO), a supportive housing program, reduced recidivism by 61%. Job Training and Placement Having a legitimate job is one of the strongest predictors of re-entry success. Many programs partner with local employers to provide job training, placement, and retention support. The Center for Employment Opportunities is one such initiative that offers paid transitional jobs and job coaching. Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment Addressing underlying mental health and addiction issues is essential to preventing recidivism. Re-entry programs need to connect people to quality community-based treatment and support their ongoing recovery. For instance, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), which combines medication with counseling, has been shown to significantly reduce relapse and recidivism rates. Mentoring, Peer Support, and Family Engagement Positive social support is invaluable for re-entry success. Some programs pair participants with mentors who have successfully reintegrated themselves. Strengthening family bonds, such as through parenting classes and family therapy, also reinforces re-entry gains. Legal Aid and Advocacy Help with things like reinstating driver's licenses or dealing with child support issues can also remove major barriers to re-entry. Ongoing Monitoring and Evaluation Successful re-entry programs continuously assess what's working and what needs improvement. Here are two important aspects. Tracking Outcomes and Adjusting Program Strategies Programs need clear metrics to measure their re-entry success, such as employment, housing stability, sobriety, and recidivism rates. Gathering this data helps programs see where participants are struggling and make needed adjustments. It also helps demonstrate the impact of their re-entry efforts to funders and policymakers. Using Data to Inform Decision-Making Regularly analyzing program data allows for continuous quality improvement: Are certain interventions more effective than others? Are particular populations not being well-served? Using data to drive your decisions leads to stronger outcomes. So what does it take to design a re-entry program that works? The most effective programs share some common elements. Pre-Release Planning Re-entry can't just start on the day of release. Careful planning and support need to begin well before someone walks out of prison. This involves the following. Needs Assessments and Individualized Case Plans To provide targeted support, re-entry planning should start with a comprehensive assessment of an individual's risks and needs. It may consider their education, job skills, substance abuse, and mental health. This informs an individualized case plan to guide successful, personalized programming. Connecting With Community Resources (Housing, Employment, Healthcare) Pre-release is the time to start building a bridge between prison and the community. This means connecting individuals with local service providers, employers, and housing options. Community partnerships and recidivism reduction are closely linked. For example, some programs have community case managers meet with participants before their release to line up post-release support. Addressing Education and Skills Gaps Many people enter prison with low levels of education and few job skills. Providing opportunities to gain credentials, complete degrees, and undergo vocational training while incarcerated makes them much more employable upon release. For example, the Last Mile, a program that trains individuals in computer coding behind bars, has a 0% recidivism rate among its graduates. Post-Release Support The first days and weeks after release are a vulnerable time. Immediate access to support is critical for successful re-entry. Important post-release services include the following. Housing Assistance A lack of stable housing is one of the biggest barriers to successful re-entry. Programs that provide transitional housing or help with finding affordable rentals are key. In Ohio, Returning Home-Ohio (RHO), a supportive housing program, reduced recidivism by 61%. Job Training and Placement Having a legitimate job is one of the strongest predictors of re-entry success. Many programs partner with local employers to provide job training, placement, and retention support. The Center for Employment Opportunities is one such initiative that offers paid transitional jobs and job coaching. Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment Addressing underlying mental health and addiction issues is essential to preventing recidivism. Re-entry programs need to connect people to quality community-based treatment and support their ongoing recovery. For instance, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), which combines medication with counseling, has been shown to significantly reduce relapse and recidivism rates. Mentoring, Peer Support, and Family Engagement Positive social support is invaluable for re-entry success. Some programs pair participants with mentors who have successfully reintegrated themselves. Strengthening family bonds, such as through parenting classes and family therapy, also reinforces re-entry gains. Legal Aid and Advocacy Help with things like reinstating driver's licenses or dealing with child support issues can also remove major barriers to re-entry. Ongoing Monitoring and Evaluation Successful re-entry programs continuously assess what's working and what needs improvement. Here are two important aspects. Tracking Outcomes and Adjusting Program Strategies Programs need clear metrics to measure their re-entry success, such as employment, housing stability, sobriety, and recidivism rates. Gathering this data helps programs see where participants are struggling and make needed adjustments. It also helps demonstrate the impact of their re-entry efforts to funders and policymakers. Using Data to Inform Decision-Making Regularly analyzing program data allows for continuous quality improvement: Are certain interventions more effective than others? Are particular populations not being well-served? Using data to drive your decisions leads to stronger outcomes. So what does it take to design a re-entry program that works? The most effective programs share some common elements. Pre-Release Planning Re-entry can't just start on the day of release. Careful planning and support need to begin well before someone walks out of prison. This involves the following. Needs Assessments and Individualized Case Plans To provide targeted support, re-entry planning should start with a comprehensive assessment of an individual's risks and needs. It may consider their education, job skills, substance abuse, and mental health. This informs an individualized case plan to guide successful, personalized programming. Connecting With Community Resources (Housing, Employment, Healthcare) Pre-release is the time to start building a bridge between prison and the community. This means connecting individuals with local service providers, employers, and housing options. Community partnerships and recidivism reduction are closely linked. For example, some programs have community case managers meet with participants before their release to line up post-release support. Addressing Education and Skills Gaps Many people enter prison with low levels of education and few job skills. Providing opportunities to gain credentials, complete degrees, and undergo vocational training while incarcerated makes them much more employable upon release. For example, the Last Mile, a program that trains individuals in computer coding behind bars, has a 0% recidivism rate among its graduates. Post-Release Support The first days and weeks after release are a vulnerable time. Immediate access to support is critical for successful re-entry. Important post-release services include the following. Housing Assistance A lack of stable housing is one of the biggest barriers to successful re-entry. Programs that provide transitional housing or help with finding affordable rentals are key. In Ohio, Returning Home-Ohio (RHO), a supportive housing program, reduced recidivism by 61%. Job Training and Placement Having a legitimate job is one of the strongest predictors of re-entry success. Many programs partner with local employers to provide job training, placement, and retention support. The Center for Employment Opportunities is one such initiative that offers paid transitional jobs and job coaching. Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment Addressing underlying mental health and addiction issues is essential to preventing recidivism. Re-entry programs need to connect people to quality community-based treatment and support their ongoing recovery. For instance, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), which combines medication with counseling, has been shown to significantly reduce relapse and recidivism rates. Mentoring, Peer Support, and Family Engagement Positive social support is invaluable for re-entry success. Some programs pair participants with mentors who have successfully reintegrated themselves. Strengthening family bonds, such as through parenting classes and family therapy, also reinforces re-entry gains. Legal Aid and Advocacy Help with things like reinstating driver's licenses or dealing with child support issues can also remove major barriers to re-entry. Ongoing Monitoring and Evaluation Successful re-entry programs continuously assess what's working and what needs improvement. Here are two important aspects. Tracking Outcomes and Adjusting Program Strategies Programs need clear metrics to measure their re-entry success, such as employment, housing stability, sobriety, and recidivism rates. Gathering this data helps programs see where participants are struggling and make needed adjustments. It also helps demonstrate the impact of their re-entry efforts to funders and policymakers. Using Data to Inform Decision-Making Regularly analyzing program data allows for continuous quality improvement: Are certain interventions more effective than others? Are particular populations not being well-served? Using data to drive your decisions leads to stronger outcomes. So what does it take to design a re-entry program that works? The most effective programs share some common elements. Pre-Release Planning Re-entry can't just start on the day of release. Careful planning and support need to begin well before someone walks out of prison. This involves the following. Needs Assessments and Individualized Case Plans To provide targeted support, re-entry planning should start with a comprehensive assessment of an individual's risks and needs. It may consider their education, job skills, substance abuse, and mental health. This informs an individualized case plan to guide successful, personalized programming. Connecting With Community Resources (Housing, Employment, Healthcare) Pre-release is the time to start building a bridge between prison and the community. This means connecting individuals with local service providers, employers, and housing options. Community partnerships and recidivism reduction are closely linked. For example, some programs have community case managers meet with participants before their release to line up post-release support. Addressing Education and Skills Gaps Many people enter prison with low levels of education and few job skills. Providing opportunities to gain credentials, complete degrees, and undergo vocational training while incarcerated makes them much more employable upon release. For example, the Last Mile, a program that trains individuals in computer coding behind bars, has a 0% recidivism rate among its graduates. Post-Release Support The first days and weeks after release are a vulnerable time. Immediate access to support is critical for successful re-entry. Important post-release services include the following. Housing Assistance A lack of stable housing is one of the biggest barriers to successful re-entry. Programs that provide transitional housing or help with finding affordable rentals are key. In Ohio, Returning Home-Ohio (RHO), a supportive housing program, reduced recidivism by 61%. Job Training and Placement Having a legitimate job is one of the strongest predictors of re-entry success. Many programs partner with local employers to provide job training, placement, and retention support. The Center for Employment Opportunities is one such initiative that offers paid transitional jobs and job coaching. Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment Addressing underlying mental health and addiction issues is essential to preventing recidivism. Re-entry programs need to connect people to quality community-based treatment and support their ongoing recovery. For instance, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), which combines medication with counseling, has been shown to significantly reduce relapse and recidivism rates. Mentoring, Peer Support, and Family Engagement Positive social support is invaluable for re-entry success. Some programs pair participants with mentors who have successfully reintegrated themselves. Strengthening family bonds, such as through parenting classes and family therapy, also reinforces re-entry gains. Legal Aid and Advocacy Help with things like reinstating driver's licenses or dealing with child support issues can also remove major barriers to re-entry. Ongoing Monitoring and Evaluation Successful re-entry programs continuously assess what's working and what needs improvement. Here are two important aspects. Tracking Outcomes and Adjusting Program Strategies Programs need clear metrics to measure their re-entry success, such as employment, housing stability, sobriety, and recidivism rates. Gathering this data helps programs see where participants are struggling and make needed adjustments. It also helps demonstrate the impact of their re-entry efforts to funders and policymakers. Using Data to Inform Decision-Making Regularly analyzing program data allows for continuous quality improvement: Are certain interventions more effective than others? Are particular populations not being well-served? Using data to drive your decisions leads to stronger outcomes. So what does it take to design a re-entry program that works? The most effective programs share some common elements. Pre-Release Planning Re-entry can't just start on the day of release. Careful planning and support need to begin well before someone walks out of prison. This involves the following. Needs Assessments and Individualized Case Plans To provide targeted support, re-entry planning should start with a comprehensive assessment of an individual's risks and needs. It may consider their education, job skills, substance abuse, and mental health. This informs an individualized case plan to guide successful, personalized programming. Connecting With Community Resources (Housing, Employment, Healthcare) Pre-release is the time to start building a bridge between prison and the community. This means connecting individuals with local service providers, employers, and housing options. Community partnerships and recidivism reduction are closely linked. For example, some programs have community case managers meet with participants before their release to line up post-release support. Addressing Education and Skills Gaps Many people enter prison with low levels of education and few job skills. Providing opportunities to gain credentials, complete degrees, and undergo vocational training while incarcerated makes them much more employable upon release. For example, the Last Mile, a program that trains individuals in computer coding behind bars, has a 0% recidivism rate among its graduates. Post-Release Support The first days and weeks after release are a vulnerable time. Immediate access to support is critical for successful re-entry. Important post-release services include the following. Housing Assistance A lack of stable housing is one of the biggest barriers to successful re-entry. Programs that provide transitional housing or help with finding affordable rentals are key. In Ohio, Returning Home-Ohio (RHO), a supportive housing program, reduced recidivism by 61%. Job Training and Placement Having a legitimate job is one of the strongest predictors of re-entry success. Many programs partner with local employers to provide job training, placement, and retention support. The Center for Employment Opportunities is one such initiative that offers paid transitional jobs and job coaching. Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment Addressing underlying mental health and addiction issues is essential to preventing recidivism. Re-entry programs need to connect people to quality community-based treatment and support their ongoing recovery. For instance, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), which combines medication with counseling, has been shown to significantly reduce relapse and recidivism rates. Mentoring, Peer Support, and Family Engagement Positive social support is invaluable for re-entry success. Some programs pair participants with mentors who have successfully reintegrated themselves. Strengthening family bonds, such as through parenting classes and family therapy, also reinforces re-entry gains. Legal Aid and Advocacy Help with things like reinstating driver's licenses or dealing with child support issues can also remove major barriers to re-entry. Ongoing Monitoring and Evaluation Successful re-entry programs continuously assess what's working and what needs improvement. Here are two important aspects. Tracking Outcomes and Adjusting Program Strategies Programs need clear metrics to measure their re-entry success, such as employment, housing stability, sobriety, and recidivism rates. Gathering this data helps programs see where participants are struggling and make needed adjustments. It also helps demonstrate the impact of their re-entry efforts to funders and policymakers. Using Data to Inform Decision-Making Regularly analyzing program data allows for continuous quality improvement: Are certain interventions more effective than others? Are particular populations not being well-served? Using data to drive your decisions leads to stronger outcomes. So what does it take to design a re-entry program that works? The most effective programs share some common elements. Pre-Release Planning Re-entry can't just start on the day of release. Careful planning and support need to begin well before someone walks out of prison. This involves the following. Needs Assessments and Individualized Case Plans To provide targeted support, re-entry planning should start with a comprehensive assessment of an individual's risks and needs. It may consider their education, job skills, substance abuse, and mental health. This informs an individualized case plan to guide successful, personalized programming. Connecting With Community Resources (Housing, Employment, Healthcare) Pre-release is the time to start building a bridge between prison and the community. This means connecting individuals with local service providers, employers, and housing options. Community partnerships and recidivism reduction are closely linked. For example, some programs have community case managers meet with participants before their release to line up post-release support. Addressing Education and Skills Gaps Many people enter prison with low levels of education and few job skills. Providing opportunities to gain credentials, complete degrees, and undergo vocational training while incarcerated makes them much more employable upon release. For example, the Last Mile, a program that trains individuals in computer coding behind bars, has a 0% recidivism rate among its graduates. Post-Release Support The first days and weeks after release are a vulnerable time. Immediate access to support is critical for successful re-entry. Important post-release services include the following. Housing Assistance A lack of stable housing is one of the biggest barriers to successful re-entry. Programs that provide transitional housing or help with finding affordable rentals are key. In Ohio, Returning Home-Ohio (RHO), a supportive housing program, reduced recidivism by 61%. Job Training and Placement Having a legitimate job is one of the strongest predictors of re-entry success. Many programs partner with local employers to provide job training, placement, and retention support. The Center for Employment Opportunities is one such initiative that offers paid transitional jobs and job coaching. Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment Addressing underlying mental health and addiction issues is essential to preventing recidivism. Re-entry programs need to connect people to quality community-based treatment and support their ongoing recovery. For instance, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), which combines medication with counseling, has been shown to significantly reduce relapse and recidivism rates. Mentoring, Peer Support, and Family Engagement Positive social support is invaluable for re-entry success. Some programs pair participants with mentors who have successfully reintegrated themselves. Strengthening family bonds, such as through parenting classes and family therapy, also reinforces re-entry gains. Legal Aid and Advocacy Help with things like reinstating driver's licenses or dealing with child support issues can also remove major barriers to re-entry. Ongoing Monitoring and Evaluation Successful re-entry programs continuously assess what's working and what needs improvement. Here are two important aspects. Tracking Outcomes and Adjusting Program Strategies Programs need clear metrics to measure their re-entry success, such as employment, housing stability, sobriety, and recidivism rates. Gathering this data helps programs see where participants are struggling and make needed adjustments. It also helps demonstrate the impact of their re-entry efforts to funders and policymakers. Using Data to Inform Decision-Making Regularly analyzing program data allows for continuous quality improvement: Are certain interventions more effective than others? Are particular populations not being well-served? Using data to drive your decisions leads to stronger outcomes. So what does it take to design a re-entry program that works? The most effective programs share some common elements. Pre-Release Planning Re-entry can't just start on the day of release. Careful planning and support need to begin well before someone walks out of prison. This involves the following. Needs Assessments and Individualized Case Plans To provide targeted support, re-entry planning should start with a comprehensive assessment of an individual's risks and needs. It may consider their education, job skills, substance abuse, and mental health. This informs an individualized case plan to guide successful, personalized programming. Connecting With Community Resources (Housing, Employment, Healthcare) Pre-release is the time to start building a bridge between prison and the community. This means connecting individuals with local service providers, employers, and housing options. Community partnerships and recidivism reduction are closely linked. For example, some programs have community case managers meet with participants before their release to line up post-release support. Addressing Education and Skills Gaps Many people enter prison with low levels of education and few job skills. Providing opportunities to gain credentials, complete degrees, and undergo vocational training while incarcerated makes them much more employable upon release. For example, the Last Mile, a program that trains individuals in computer coding behind bars, has a 0% recidivism rate among its graduates. Post-Release Support The first days and weeks after release are a vulnerable time. Immediate access to support is critical for successful re-entry. Important post-release services include the following. Housing Assistance A lack of stable housing is one of the biggest barriers to successful re-entry. Programs that provide transitional housing or help with finding affordable rentals are key. In Ohio, Returning Home-Ohio (RHO), a supportive housing program, reduced recidivism by 61%. Job Training and Placement Having a legitimate job is one of the strongest predictors of re-entry success. Many programs partner with local employers to provide job training, placement, and retention support. The Center for Employment Opportunities is one such initiative that offers paid transitional jobs and job coaching. Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment Addressing underlying mental health and addiction issues is essential to preventing recidivism. Re-entry programs need to connect people to quality community-based treatment and support their ongoing recovery. For instance, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), which combines medication with counseling, has been shown to significantly reduce relapse and recidivism rates. Mentoring, Peer Support, and Family Engagement Positive social support is invaluable for re-entry success. Some programs pair participants with mentors who have successfully reintegrated themselves. Strengthening family bonds, such as through parenting classes and family therapy, also reinforces re-entry gains. Legal Aid and Advocacy Help with things like reinstating driver's licenses or dealing with child support issues can also remove major barriers to re-entry. Ongoing Monitoring and Evaluation Successful re-entry programs continuously assess what's working and what needs improvement. Here are two important aspects. Tracking Outcomes and Adjusting Program Strategies Programs need clear metrics to measure their re-entry success, such as employment, housing stability, sobriety, and recidivism rates. Gathering this data helps programs see where participants are struggling and make needed adjustments. It also helps demonstrate the impact of their re-entry efforts to funders and policymakers. Using Data to Inform Decision-Making Regularly analyzing program data allows for continuous quality improvement: Are certain interventions more effective than others? Are particular populations not being well-served? Using data to drive your decisions leads to stronger outcomes. So what does it take to design a re-entry program that works? The most effective programs share some common elements. Pre-Release Planning Re-entry can't just start on the day of release. Careful planning and support need to begin well before someone walks out of prison. This involves the following. Needs Assessments and Individualized Case Plans To provide targeted support, re-entry planning should start with a comprehensive assessment of an individual's risks and needs. It may consider their education, job skills, substance abuse, and mental health. This informs an individualized case plan to guide successful, personalized programming. Connecting With Community Resources (Housing, Employment, Healthcare) Pre-release is the time to start building a bridge between prison and the community. This means connecting individuals with local service providers, employers, and housing options. Community partnerships and recidivism reduction are closely linked. For example, some programs have community case managers meet with participants before their release to line up post-release support. Addressing Education and Skills Gaps Many people enter prison with low levels of education and few job skills. Providing opportunities to gain credentials, complete degrees, and undergo vocational training while incarcerated makes them much more employable upon release. For example, the Last Mile, a program that trains individuals in computer coding behind bars, has a 0% recidivism rate among its graduates. Post-Release Support The first days and weeks after release are a vulnerable time. Immediate access to support is critical for successful re-entry. Important post-release services include the following. Housing Assistance A lack of stable housing is one of the biggest barriers to successful re-entry. Programs that provide transitional housing or help with finding affordable rentals are key. In Ohio, Returning Home-Ohio (RHO), a supportive housing program, reduced recidivism by 61%. Job Training and Placement Having a legitimate job is one of the strongest predictors of re-entry success. Many programs partner with local employers to provide job training, placement, and retention support. The Center for Employment Opportunities is one such initiative that offers paid transitional jobs and job coaching. Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment Addressing underlying mental health and addiction issues is essential to preventing recidivism. Re-entry programs need to connect people to quality community-based treatment and support their ongoing recovery. For instance, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), which combines medication with counseling, has been shown to significantly reduce relapse and recidivism rates. Mentoring, Peer Support, and Family Engagement Positive social support is invaluable for re-entry success. Some programs pair participants with mentors who have successfully reintegrated themselves. Strengthening family bonds, such as through parenting classes and family therapy, also reinforces re-entry gains. Legal Aid and Advocacy Help with things like reinstating driver's licenses or dealing with child support issues can also remove major barriers to re-entry. Ongoing Monitoring and Evaluation Successful re-entry programs continuously assess what's working and what needs improvement. Here are two important aspects. Tracking Outcomes and Adjusting Program Strategies Programs need clear metrics to measure their re-entry success, such as employment, housing stability, sobriety, and recidivism rates. Gathering this data helps programs see where participants are struggling and make needed adjustments. It also helps demonstrate the impact of their re-entry efforts to funders and policymakers. Using Data to Inform Decision-Making Regularly analyzing program data allows for continuous quality improvement: Are certain interventions more effective than others? Are particular populations not being well-served? Using data to drive your decisions leads to stronger outcomes. So what does it take to design a re-entry program that works? The most effective programs share some common elements. Pre-Release Planning Re-entry can't just start on the day of release. Careful planning and support need to begin well before someone walks out of prison. This involves the following. Needs Assessments and Individualized Case Plans To provide targeted support, re-entry planning should start with a comprehensive assessment of an individual's risks and needs. It may consider their education, job skills, substance abuse, and mental health. This informs an individualized case plan to guide successful, personalized programming. Connecting With Community Resources (Housing, Employment, Healthcare) Pre-release is the time to start building a bridge between prison and the community. This means connecting individuals with local service providers, employers, and housing options. Community partnerships and recidivism reduction are closely linked. For example, some programs have community case managers meet with participants before their release to line up post-release support. Addressing Education and Skills Gaps Many people enter prison with low levels of education and few job skills. Providing opportunities to gain credentials, complete degrees, and undergo vocational training while incarcerated makes them much more employable upon release. For example, the Last Mile, a program that trains individuals in computer coding behind bars, has a 0% recidivism rate among its graduates. Post-Release Support The first days and weeks after release are a vulnerable time. Immediate access to support is critical for successful re-entry. Important post-release services include the following. Housing Assistance A lack of stable housing is one of the biggest barriers to successful re-entry. Programs that provide transitional housing or help with finding affordable rentals are key. In Ohio, Returning Home-Ohio (RHO), a supportive housing program, reduced recidivism by 61%. Job Training and Placement Having a legitimate job is one of the strongest predictors of re-entry success. Many programs partner with local employers to provide job training, placement, and retention support. The Center for Employment Opportunities is one such initiative that offers paid transitional jobs and job coaching. Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment Addressing underlying mental health and addiction issues is essential to preventing recidivism. Re-entry programs need to connect people to quality community-based treatment and support their ongoing recovery. For instance, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), which combines medication with counseling, has been shown to significantly reduce relapse and recidivism rates. Mentoring, Peer Support, and Family Engagement Positive social support is invaluable for re-entry success. Some programs pair participants with mentors who have successfully reintegrated themselves. Strengthening family bonds, such as through parenting classes and family therapy, also reinforces re-entry gains. Legal Aid and Advocacy Help with things like reinstating driver's licenses or dealing with child support issues can also remove major barriers to re-entry. Ongoing Monitoring and Evaluation Successful re-entry programs continuously assess what's working and what needs improvement. Here are two important aspects. Tracking Outcomes and Adjusting Program Strategies Programs need clear metrics to measure their re-entry success, such as employment, housing stability, sobriety, and recidivism rates. Gathering this data helps programs see where participants are struggling and make needed adjustments. It also helps demonstrate the impact of their re-entry efforts to funders and policymakers. Using Data to Inform Decision-Making Regularly analyzing program data allows for continuous quality improvement: Are certain interventions more effective than others? Are particular populations not being well-served? Using data to drive your decisions leads to stronger outcomes. So what does it take to design a re-entry program that works? The most effective programs share some common elements. Pre-Release Planning Re-entry can't just start on the day of release. Careful planning and support need to begin well before someone walks out of prison. This involves the following. Needs Assessments and Individualized Case Plans To provide targeted support, re-entry planning should start with a comprehensive assessment of an individual's risks and needs. It may consider their education, job skills, substance abuse, and mental health. This informs an individualized case plan to guide successful, personalized programming. Connecting With Community Resources (Housing, Employment, Healthcare) Pre-release is the time to start building a bridge between prison and the community. This means connecting individuals with local service providers, employers, and housing options. Community partnerships and recidivism reduction are closely linked. For example, some programs have community case managers meet with participants before their release to line up post-release support. Addressing Education and Skills Gaps Many people enter prison with low levels of education and few job skills. Providing opportunities to gain credentials, complete degrees, and undergo vocational training while incarcerated makes them much more employable upon release. For example, the Last Mile, a program that trains individuals in computer coding behind bars, has a 0% recidivism rate among its graduates. Post-Release Support The first days and weeks after release are a vulnerable time. Immediate access to support is critical for successful re-entry. Important post-release services include the following. Housing Assistance A lack of stable housing is one of the biggest barriers to successful re-entry. Programs that provide transitional housing or help with finding affordable rentals are key. In Ohio, Returning Home-Ohio (RHO), a supportive housing program, reduced recidivism by 61%. Job Training and Placement Having a legitimate job is one of the strongest predictors of re-entry success. Many programs partner with local employers to provide job training, placement, and retention support. The Center for Employment Opportunities is one such initiative that offers paid transitional jobs and job coaching. Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment Addressing underlying mental health and addiction issues is essential to preventing recidivism. Re-entry programs need to connect people to quality community-based treatment and support their ongoing recovery. For instance, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), which combines medication with counseling, has been shown to significantly reduce relapse and recidivism rates. Mentoring, Peer Support, and Family Engagement Positive social support is invaluable for re-entry success. Some programs pair participants with mentors who have successfully reintegrated themselves. Strengthening family bonds, such as through parenting classes and family therapy, also reinforces re-entry gains. Legal Aid and Advocacy Help with things like reinstating driver's licenses or dealing with child support issues can also remove major barriers to re-entry. Ongoing Monitoring and Evaluation Successful re-entry programs continuously assess what's working and what needs improvement. Here are two important aspects. Tracking Outcomes and Adjusting Program Strategies Programs need clear metrics to measure their re-entry success, such as employment, housing stability, sobriety, and recidivism rates. Gathering this data helps programs see where participants are struggling and make needed adjustments. It also helps demonstrate the impact of their re-entry efforts to funders and policymakers. Using Data to Inform Decision-Making Regularly analyzing program data allows for continuous quality improvement: Are certain interventions more effective than others? Are particular populations not being well-served? Using data to drive your decisions leads to stronger outcomes.

As you can see, successful re-entry requires a multilevel effort. No single agency can provide the full spectrum of services returning individuals need. Re-entry works best when diverse stakeholders come together in collaboration. Why Collaboration Is Essential Re-entry is a complex issue that touches many different sectors — criminal justice, social services, housing, employment, healthcare, and more. Siloed approaches through which each agency works independently are much less effective. Collaboration allows for: Pooling resources and expertise: Re-entry partners can leverage one another's strengths and share limited resources. For example, a nonprofit may provide job training while the Department of Corrections funds it. Coordinating efforts: Collaboration gets everyone on the same page to avoid duplication and ensure a smooth handoff between prison and the community. Identifying and addressing gaps: When all stakeholders are at the table, it's easier to pinpoint where needs aren't being met. Partners can then work together to fill service gaps. In Connecticut, The CT Reentry Collaborative brings providers together to map out resources and develop strategies to address the missing pieces. Who Should Be Involved? An effective re-entry collaboration engages a wide range of partners. Some of the key players include the following. Government Agencies (Corrections, Social Services, Workforce Development) Federal agencies are the backbone of most re-entry efforts. They often provide post-release supervision. Parole and probation officers are especially important re-entry partners. In some states, corrections agencies contract with community providers to deliver re-entry services, so close coordination is critical. Other government partners include social service agencies administering food stamps, Medicaid, and housing assistance. Workforce development agencies are also key for connecting people to job opportunities. The federal Second Chance Act (SCA) is one such example. It's also one of the most successful juvenile re-entry programs. It provides grants to help state and local agencies strengthen re-entry partnerships. Nonprofits, Faith-Based Organizations, Community Groups Community-based organizations are the heart of re-entry support. They're the ones providing the on-the-ground services — from job training to addiction recovery to family counseling. Nonprofits are often more nimble than government bureaucracies and may be more trusted by the formerly incarcerated. In many cities, grassroots re-entry coalitions have sprung up to advocate for needed reforms. Faith-based groups are also active in re-entry work. For example, Prison Fellowship partners with churches across the country to provide mentoring and support groups for returning citizens. Connecting with faith-based communities can be a powerful source of support. Employers, Educators, Healthcare Providers Re-entry collaboratives also need to engage the private sector. Employers are essential partners since they hold the key to job opportunities. Some successful prisoner re-entry programs are working with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to encourage businesses to hire returning individuals. Employer tool kits and tax incentives for hiring are promising strategies. Education providers, from community colleges to vocational schools, are also important for helping people gain post-release skills and credentials. Similarly, partnerships with local healthcare systems ensure continuity of mental health and substance abuse treatment after release. For example, many programs now enable participants to schedule appointments with community health providers before leaving prison. As you can see, successful re-entry requires a multilevel effort. No single agency can provide the full spectrum of services returning individuals need. Re-entry works best when diverse stakeholders come together in collaboration. Why Collaboration Is Essential Re-entry is a complex issue that touches many different sectors — criminal justice, social services, housing, employment, healthcare, and more. Siloed approaches through which each agency works independently are much less effective. Collaboration allows for: Pooling resources and expertise: Re-entry partners can leverage one another's strengths and share limited resources. For example, a nonprofit may provide job training while the Department of Corrections funds it. Coordinating efforts: Collaboration gets everyone on the same page to avoid duplication and ensure a smooth handoff between prison and the community. Identifying and addressing gaps: When all stakeholders are at the table, it's easier to pinpoint where needs aren't being met. Partners can then work together to fill service gaps. In Connecticut, The CT Reentry Collaborative brings providers together to map out resources and develop strategies to address the missing pieces. Who Should Be Involved? An effective re-entry collaboration engages a wide range of partners. Some of the key players include the following. Government Agencies (Corrections, Social Services, Workforce Development) Federal agencies are the backbone of most re-entry efforts. They often provide post-release supervision. Parole and probation officers are especially important re-entry partners. In some states, corrections agencies contract with community providers to deliver re-entry services, so close coordination is critical. Other government partners include social service agencies administering food stamps, Medicaid, and housing assistance. Workforce development agencies are also key for connecting people to job opportunities. The federal Second Chance Act (SCA) is one such example. It's also one of the most successful juvenile re-entry programs. It provides grants to help state and local agencies strengthen re-entry partnerships. Nonprofits, Faith-Based Organizations, Community Groups Community-based organizations are the heart of re-entry support. They're the ones providing the on-the-ground services — from job training to addiction recovery to family counseling. Nonprofits are often more nimble than government bureaucracies and may be more trusted by the formerly incarcerated. In many cities, grassroots re-entry coalitions have sprung up to advocate for needed reforms. Faith-based groups are also active in re-entry work. For example, Prison Fellowship partners with churches across the country to provide mentoring and support groups for returning citizens. Connecting with faith-based communities can be a powerful source of support. Employers, Educators, Healthcare Providers Re-entry collaboratives also need to engage the private sector. Employers are essential partners since they hold the key to job opportunities. Some successful prisoner re-entry programs are working with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to encourage businesses to hire returning individuals. Employer tool kits and tax incentives for hiring are promising strategies. Education providers, from community colleges to vocational schools, are also important for helping people gain post-release skills and credentials. Similarly, partnerships with local healthcare systems ensure continuity of mental health and substance abuse treatment after release. For example, many programs now enable participants to schedule appointments with community health providers before leaving prison. As you can see, successful re-entry requires a multilevel effort. No single agency can provide the full spectrum of services returning individuals need. Re-entry works best when diverse stakeholders come together in collaboration. Why Collaboration Is Essential Re-entry is a complex issue that touches many different sectors — criminal justice, social services, housing, employment, healthcare, and more. Siloed approaches through which each agency works independently are much less effective. Collaboration allows for: Pooling resources and expertise: Re-entry partners can leverage one another's strengths and share limited resources. For example, a nonprofit may provide job training while the Department of Corrections funds it. Coordinating efforts: Collaboration gets everyone on the same page to avoid duplication and ensure a smooth handoff between prison and the community. Identifying and addressing gaps: When all stakeholders are at the table, it's easier to pinpoint where needs aren't being met. Partners can then work together to fill service gaps. In Connecticut, The CT Reentry Collaborative brings providers together to map out resources and develop strategies to address the missing pieces. Who Should Be Involved? An effective re-entry collaboration engages a wide range of partners. Some of the key players include the following. Government Agencies (Corrections, Social Services, Workforce Development) Federal agencies are the backbone of most re-entry efforts. They often provide post-release supervision. Parole and probation officers are especially important re-entry partners. In some states, corrections agencies contract with community providers to deliver re-entry services, so close coordination is critical. Other government partners include social service agencies administering food stamps, Medicaid, and housing assistance. Workforce development agencies are also key for connecting people to job opportunities. The federal Second Chance Act (SCA) is one such example. It's also one of the most successful juvenile re-entry programs. It provides grants to help state and local agencies strengthen re-entry partnerships. Nonprofits, Faith-Based Organizations, Community Groups Community-based organizations are the heart of re-entry support. They're the ones providing the on-the-ground services — from job training to addiction recovery to family counseling. Nonprofits are often more nimble than government bureaucracies and may be more trusted by the formerly incarcerated. In many cities, grassroots re-entry coalitions have sprung up to advocate for needed reforms. Faith-based groups are also active in re-entry work. For example, Prison Fellowship partners with churches across the country to provide mentoring and support groups for returning citizens. Connecting with faith-based communities can be a powerful source of support. Employers, Educators, Healthcare Providers Re-entry collaboratives also need to engage the private sector. Employers are essential partners since they hold the key to job opportunities. Some successful prisoner re-entry programs are working with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to encourage businesses to hire returning individuals. Employer tool kits and tax incentives for hiring are promising strategies. Education providers, from community colleges to vocational schools, are also important for helping people gain post-release skills and credentials. Similarly, partnerships with local healthcare systems ensure continuity of mental health and substance abuse treatment after release. For example, many programs now enable participants to schedule appointments with community health providers before leaving prison. As you can see, successful re-entry requires a multilevel effort. No single agency can provide the full spectrum of services returning individuals need. Re-entry works best when diverse stakeholders come together in collaboration. Why Collaboration Is Essential Re-entry is a complex issue that touches many different sectors — criminal justice, social services, housing, employment, healthcare, and more. Siloed approaches through which each agency works independently are much less effective. Collaboration allows for: Pooling resources and expertise: Re-entry partners can leverage one another's strengths and share limited resources. For example, a nonprofit may provide job training while the Department of Corrections funds it. Coordinating efforts: Collaboration gets everyone on the same page to avoid duplication and ensure a smooth handoff between prison and the community. Identifying and addressing gaps: When all stakeholders are at the table, it's easier to pinpoint where needs aren't being met. Partners can then work together to fill service gaps. In Connecticut, The CT Reentry Collaborative brings providers together to map out resources and develop strategies to address the missing pieces. Who Should Be Involved? An effective re-entry collaboration engages a wide range of partners. Some of the key players include the following. Government Agencies (Corrections, Social Services, Workforce Development) Federal agencies are the backbone of most re-entry efforts. They often provide post-release supervision. Parole and probation officers are especially important re-entry partners. In some states, corrections agencies contract with community providers to deliver re-entry services, so close coordination is critical. Other government partners include social service agencies administering food stamps, Medicaid, and housing assistance. Workforce development agencies are also key for connecting people to job opportunities. The federal Second Chance Act (SCA) is one such example. It's also one of the most successful juvenile re-entry programs. It provides grants to help state and local agencies strengthen re-entry partnerships. Nonprofits, Faith-Based Organizations, Community Groups Community-based organizations are the heart of re-entry support. They're the ones providing the on-the-ground services — from job training to addiction recovery to family counseling. Nonprofits are often more nimble than government bureaucracies and may be more trusted by the formerly incarcerated. In many cities, grassroots re-entry coalitions have sprung up to advocate for needed reforms. Faith-based groups are also active in re-entry work. For example, Prison Fellowship partners with churches across the country to provide mentoring and support groups for returning citizens. Connecting with faith-based communities can be a powerful source of support. Employers, Educators, Healthcare Providers Re-entry collaboratives also need to engage the private sector. Employers are essential partners since they hold the key to job opportunities. Some successful prisoner re-entry programs are working with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to encourage businesses to hire returning individuals. Employer tool kits and tax incentives for hiring are promising strategies. Education providers, from community colleges to vocational schools, are also important for helping people gain post-release skills and credentials. Similarly, partnerships with local healthcare systems ensure continuity of mental health and substance abuse treatment after release. For example, many programs now enable participants to schedule appointments with community health providers before leaving prison. As you can see, successful re-entry requires a multilevel effort. No single agency can provide the full spectrum of services returning individuals need. Re-entry works best when diverse stakeholders come together in collaboration. Why Collaboration Is Essential Re-entry is a complex issue that touches many different sectors — criminal justice, social services, housing, employment, healthcare, and more. Siloed approaches through which each agency works independently are much less effective. Collaboration allows for: Pooling resources and expertise: Re-entry partners can leverage one another's strengths and share limited resources. For example, a nonprofit may provide job training while the Department of Corrections funds it. Coordinating efforts: Collaboration gets everyone on the same page to avoid duplication and ensure a smooth handoff between prison and the community. Identifying and addressing gaps: When all stakeholders are at the table, it's easier to pinpoint where needs aren't being met. Partners can then work together to fill service gaps. In Connecticut, The CT Reentry Collaborative brings providers together to map out resources and develop strategies to address the missing pieces. Who Should Be Involved? An effective re-entry collaboration engages a wide range of partners. Some of the key players include the following. Government Agencies (Corrections, Social Services, Workforce Development) Federal agencies are the backbone of most re-entry efforts. They often provide post-release supervision. Parole and probation officers are especially important re-entry partners. In some states, corrections agencies contract with community providers to deliver re-entry services, so close coordination is critical. Other government partners include social service agencies administering food stamps, Medicaid, and housing assistance. Workforce development agencies are also key for connecting people to job opportunities. The federal Second Chance Act (SCA) is one such example. It's also one of the most successful juvenile re-entry programs. It provides grants to help state and local agencies strengthen re-entry partnerships. Nonprofits, Faith-Based Organizations, Community Groups Community-based organizations are the heart of re-entry support. They're the ones providing the on-the-ground services — from job training to addiction recovery to family counseling. Nonprofits are often more nimble than government bureaucracies and may be more trusted by the formerly incarcerated. In many cities, grassroots re-entry coalitions have sprung up to advocate for needed reforms. Faith-based groups are also active in re-entry work. For example, Prison Fellowship partners with churches across the country to provide mentoring and support groups for returning citizens. Connecting with faith-based communities can be a powerful source of support. Employers, Educators, Healthcare Providers Re-entry collaboratives also need to engage the private sector. Employers are essential partners since they hold the key to job opportunities. Some successful prisoner re-entry programs are working with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to encourage businesses to hire returning individuals. Employer tool kits and tax incentives for hiring are promising strategies. Education providers, from community colleges to vocational schools, are also important for helping people gain post-release skills and credentials. Similarly, partnerships with local healthcare systems ensure continuity of mental health and substance abuse treatment after release. For example, many programs now enable participants to schedule appointments with community health providers before leaving prison. As you can see, successful re-entry requires a multilevel effort. No single agency can provide the full spectrum of services returning individuals need. Re-entry works best when diverse stakeholders come together in collaboration. Why Collaboration Is Essential Re-entry is a complex issue that touches many different sectors — criminal justice, social services, housing, employment, healthcare, and more. Siloed approaches through which each agency works independently are much less effective. Collaboration allows for: Pooling resources and expertise: Re-entry partners can leverage one another's strengths and share limited resources. For example, a nonprofit may provide job training while the Department of Corrections funds it. Coordinating efforts: Collaboration gets everyone on the same page to avoid duplication and ensure a smooth handoff between prison and the community. Identifying and addressing gaps: When all stakeholders are at the table, it's easier to pinpoint where needs aren't being met. Partners can then work together to fill service gaps. In Connecticut, The CT Reentry Collaborative brings providers together to map out resources and develop strategies to address the missing pieces. Who Should Be Involved? An effective re-entry collaboration engages a wide range of partners. Some of the key players include the following. Government Agencies (Corrections, Social Services, Workforce Development) Federal agencies are the backbone of most re-entry efforts. They often provide post-release supervision. Parole and probation officers are especially important re-entry partners. In some states, corrections agencies contract with community providers to deliver re-entry services, so close coordination is critical. Other government partners include social service agencies administering food stamps, Medicaid, and housing assistance. Workforce development agencies are also key for connecting people to job opportunities. The federal Second Chance Act (SCA) is one such example. It's also one of the most successful juvenile re-entry programs. It provides grants to help state and local agencies strengthen re-entry partnerships. Nonprofits, Faith-Based Organizations, Community Groups Community-based organizations are the heart of re-entry support. They're the ones providing the on-the-ground services — from job training to addiction recovery to family counseling. Nonprofits are often more nimble than government bureaucracies and may be more trusted by the formerly incarcerated. In many cities, grassroots re-entry coalitions have sprung up to advocate for needed reforms. Faith-based groups are also active in re-entry work. For example, Prison Fellowship partners with churches across the country to provide mentoring and support groups for returning citizens. Connecting with faith-based communities can be a powerful source of support. Employers, Educators, Healthcare Providers Re-entry collaboratives also need to engage the private sector. Employers are essential partners since they hold the key to job opportunities. Some successful prisoner re-entry programs are working with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to encourage businesses to hire returning individuals. Employer tool kits and tax incentives for hiring are promising strategies. Education providers, from community colleges to vocational schools, are also important for helping people gain post-release skills and credentials. Similarly, partnerships with local healthcare systems ensure continuity of mental health and substance abuse treatment after release. For example, many programs now enable participants to schedule appointments with community health providers before leaving prison. As you can see, successful re-entry requires a multilevel effort. No single agency can provide the full spectrum of services returning individuals need. Re-entry works best when diverse stakeholders come together in collaboration. Why Collaboration Is Essential Re-entry is a complex issue that touches many different sectors — criminal justice, social services, housing, employment, healthcare, and more. Siloed approaches through which each agency works independently are much less effective. Collaboration allows for: Pooling resources and expertise: Re-entry partners can leverage one another's strengths and share limited resources. For example, a nonprofit may provide job training while the Department of Corrections funds it. Coordinating efforts: Collaboration gets everyone on the same page to avoid duplication and ensure a smooth handoff between prison and the community. Identifying and addressing gaps: When all stakeholders are at the table, it's easier to pinpoint where needs aren't being met. Partners can then work together to fill service gaps. In Connecticut, The CT Reentry Collaborative brings providers together to map out resources and develop strategies to address the missing pieces. Who Should Be Involved? An effective re-entry collaboration engages a wide range of partners. Some of the key players include the following. Government Agencies (Corrections, Social Services, Workforce Development) Federal agencies are the backbone of most re-entry efforts. They often provide post-release supervision. Parole and probation officers are especially important re-entry partners. In some states, corrections agencies contract with community providers to deliver re-entry services, so close coordination is critical. Other government partners include social service agencies administering food stamps, Medicaid, and housing assistance. Workforce development agencies are also key for connecting people to job opportunities. The federal Second Chance Act (SCA) is one such example. It's also one of the most successful juvenile re-entry programs. It provides grants to help state and local agencies strengthen re-entry partnerships. Nonprofits, Faith-Based Organizations, Community Groups Community-based organizations are the heart of re-entry support. They're the ones providing the on-the-ground services — from job training to addiction recovery to family counseling. Nonprofits are often more nimble than government bureaucracies and may be more trusted by the formerly incarcerated. In many cities, grassroots re-entry coalitions have sprung up to advocate for needed reforms. Faith-based groups are also active in re-entry work. For example, Prison Fellowship partners with churches across the country to provide mentoring and support groups for returning citizens. Connecting with faith-based communities can be a powerful source of support. Employers, Educators, Healthcare Providers Re-entry collaboratives also need to engage the private sector. Employers are essential partners since they hold the key to job opportunities. Some successful prisoner re-entry programs are working with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to encourage businesses to hire returning individuals. Employer tool kits and tax incentives for hiring are promising strategies. Education providers, from community colleges to vocational schools, are also important for helping people gain post-release skills and credentials. Similarly, partnerships with local healthcare systems ensure continuity of mental health and substance abuse treatment after release. For example, many programs now enable participants to schedule appointments with community health providers before leaving prison. As you can see, successful re-entry requires a multilevel effort. No single agency can provide the full spectrum of services returning individuals need. Re-entry works best when diverse stakeholders come together in collaboration. Why Collaboration Is Essential Re-entry is a complex issue that touches many different sectors — criminal justice, social services, housing, employment, healthcare, and more. Siloed approaches through which each agency works independently are much less effective. Collaboration allows for: Pooling resources and expertise: Re-entry partners can leverage one another's strengths and share limited resources. For example, a nonprofit may provide job training while the Department of Corrections funds it. Coordinating efforts: Collaboration gets everyone on the same page to avoid duplication and ensure a smooth handoff between prison and the community. Identifying and addressing gaps: When all stakeholders are at the table, it's easier to pinpoint where needs aren't being met. Partners can then work together to fill service gaps. In Connecticut, The CT Reentry Collaborative brings providers together to map out resources and develop strategies to address the missing pieces. Who Should Be Involved? An effective re-entry collaboration engages a wide range of partners. Some of the key players include the following. Government Agencies (Corrections, Social Services, Workforce Development) Federal agencies are the backbone of most re-entry efforts. They often provide post-release supervision. Parole and probation officers are especially important re-entry partners. In some states, corrections agencies contract with community providers to deliver re-entry services, so close coordination is critical. Other government partners include social service agencies administering food stamps, Medicaid, and housing assistance. Workforce development agencies are also key for connecting people to job opportunities. The federal Second Chance Act (SCA) is one such example. It's also one of the most successful juvenile re-entry programs. It provides grants to help state and local agencies strengthen re-entry partnerships. Nonprofits, Faith-Based Organizations, Community Groups Community-based organizations are the heart of re-entry support. They're the ones providing the on-the-ground services — from job training to addiction recovery to family counseling. Nonprofits are often more nimble than government bureaucracies and may be more trusted by the formerly incarcerated. In many cities, grassroots re-entry coalitions have sprung up to advocate for needed reforms. Faith-based groups are also active in re-entry work. For example, Prison Fellowship partners with churches across the country to provide mentoring and support groups for returning citizens. Connecting with faith-based communities can be a powerful source of support. Employers, Educators, Healthcare Providers Re-entry collaboratives also need to engage the private sector. Employers are essential partners since they hold the key to job opportunities. Some successful prisoner re-entry programs are working with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to encourage businesses to hire returning individuals. Employer tool kits and tax incentives for hiring are promising strategies. Education providers, from community colleges to vocational schools, are also important for helping people gain post-release skills and credentials. Similarly, partnerships with local healthcare systems ensure continuity of mental health and substance abuse treatment after release. For example, many programs now enable participants to schedule appointments with community health providers before leaving prison. As you can see, successful re-entry requires a multilevel effort. No single agency can provide the full spectrum of services returning individuals need. Re-entry works best when diverse stakeholders come together in collaboration. Why Collaboration Is Essential Re-entry is a complex issue that touches many different sectors — criminal justice, social services, housing, employment, healthcare, and more. Siloed approaches through which each agency works independently are much less effective. Collaboration allows for: Pooling resources and expertise: Re-entry partners can leverage one another's strengths and share limited resources. For example, a nonprofit may provide job training while the Department of Corrections funds it. Coordinating efforts: Collaboration gets everyone on the same page to avoid duplication and ensure a smooth handoff between prison and the community. Identifying and addressing gaps: When all stakeholders are at the table, it's easier to pinpoint where needs aren't being met. Partners can then work together to fill service gaps. In Connecticut, The CT Reentry Collaborative brings providers together to map out resources and develop strategies to address the missing pieces. Who Should Be Involved? An effective re-entry collaboration engages a wide range of partners. Some of the key players include the following. Government Agencies (Corrections, Social Services, Workforce Development) Federal agencies are the backbone of most re-entry efforts. They often provide post-release supervision. Parole and probation officers are especially important re-entry partners. In some states, corrections agencies contract with community providers to deliver re-entry services, so close coordination is critical. Other government partners include social service agencies administering food stamps, Medicaid, and housing assistance. Workforce development agencies are also key for connecting people to job opportunities. The federal Second Chance Act (SCA) is one such example. It's also one of the most successful juvenile re-entry programs. It provides grants to help state and local agencies strengthen re-entry partnerships. Nonprofits, Faith-Based Organizations, Community Groups Community-based organizations are the heart of re-entry support. They're the ones providing the on-the-ground services — from job training to addiction recovery to family counseling. Nonprofits are often more nimble than government bureaucracies and may be more trusted by the formerly incarcerated. In many cities, grassroots re-entry coalitions have sprung up to advocate for needed reforms. Faith-based groups are also active in re-entry work. For example, Prison Fellowship partners with churches across the country to provide mentoring and support groups for returning citizens. Connecting with faith-based communities can be a powerful source of support. Employers, Educators, Healthcare Providers Re-entry collaboratives also need to engage the private sector. Employers are essential partners since they hold the key to job opportunities. Some successful prisoner re-entry programs are working with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to encourage businesses to hire returning individuals. Employer tool kits and tax incentives for hiring are promising strategies. Education providers, from community colleges to vocational schools, are also important for helping people gain post-release skills and credentials. Similarly, partnerships with local healthcare systems ensure continuity of mental health and substance abuse treatment after release. For example, many programs now enable participants to schedule appointments with community health providers before leaving prison. As you can see, successful re-entry requires a multilevel effort. No single agency can provide the full spectrum of services returning individuals need. Re-entry works best when diverse stakeholders come together in collaboration. Why Collaboration Is Essential Re-entry is a complex issue that touches many different sectors — criminal justice, social services, housing, employment, healthcare, and more. Siloed approaches through which each agency works independently are much less effective. Collaboration allows for: Pooling resources and expertise: Re-entry partners can leverage one another's strengths and share limited resources. For example, a nonprofit may provide job training while the Department of Corrections funds it. Coordinating efforts: Collaboration gets everyone on the same page to avoid duplication and ensure a smooth handoff between prison and the community. Identifying and addressing gaps: When all stakeholders are at the table, it's easier to pinpoint where needs aren't being met. Partners can then work together to fill service gaps. In Connecticut, The CT Reentry Collaborative brings providers together to map out resources and develop strategies to address the missing pieces. Who Should Be Involved? An effective re-entry collaboration engages a wide range of partners. Some of the key players include the following. Government Agencies (Corrections, Social Services, Workforce Development) Federal agencies are the backbone of most re-entry efforts. They often provide post-release supervision. Parole and probation officers are especially important re-entry partners. In some states, corrections agencies contract with community providers to deliver re-entry services, so close coordination is critical. Other government partners include social service agencies administering food stamps, Medicaid, and housing assistance. Workforce development agencies are also key for connecting people to job opportunities. The federal Second Chance Act (SCA) is one such example. It's also one of the most successful juvenile re-entry programs. It provides grants to help state and local agencies strengthen re-entry partnerships. Nonprofits, Faith-Based Organizations, Community Groups Community-based organizations are the heart of re-entry support. They're the ones providing the on-the-ground services — from job training to addiction recovery to family counseling. Nonprofits are often more nimble than government bureaucracies and may be more trusted by the formerly incarcerated. In many cities, grassroots re-entry coalitions have sprung up to advocate for needed reforms. Faith-based groups are also active in re-entry work. For example, Prison Fellowship partners with churches across the country to provide mentoring and support groups for returning citizens. Connecting with faith-based communities can be a powerful source of support. Employers, Educators, Healthcare Providers Re-entry collaboratives also need to engage the private sector. Employers are essential partners since they hold the key to job opportunities. Some successful prisoner re-entry programs are working with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to encourage businesses to hire returning individuals. Employer tool kits and tax incentives for hiring are promising strategies. Education providers, from community colleges to vocational schools, are also important for helping people gain post-release skills and credentials. Similarly, partnerships with local healthcare systems ensure continuity of mental health and substance abuse treatment after release. For example, many programs now enable participants to schedule appointments with community health providers before leaving prison.

Governments and community organizations across the country are recognizing the importance of re-entry support. While much work remains to be done, many programs are already making a real difference. Here are just a few examples: The Dannon Project in Alabama provides 12 months of comprehensive re-entry services, including job readiness, placement, and retention. It provides both pre- and post-release services to support individuals re-entering society, which includes job coaching, career support, and other necessary services to help participants reintegrate successfully. The Reentry Success Center in Richmond, California, acts as a comprehensive hub for re-entry resources. It offers a variety of services, including access to computer labs, job training, housing assistance, health services, and more, all under one roof. The Fortune Society in New York offers a holistic re-entry model, including housing, education, employment, family services, and substance abuse treatment. The Mentally Ill Offender Community Transition Program (MIOCTP) in Washington provides pre-release planning and post-release housing and behavioral health services for individuals with serious mental illness. Results show that participants in this program are less likely to be convicted of a new felony compared to a matched group. As these programs show, re-entry support changes lives and strengthens communities. The road from prison to the community is never an easy one, but with the right interventions at the right times, successful reintegration is possible. As a social worker, you have the power to help design the programs and policies that make this happen. But to achieve that, you have to collaborate across sectors while using the right re-entry software and data to drive your decisions. By keeping a clear focus on individuals' needs and using the right tools to reduce recidivism, you can help ensure that the re-entry process opens the door to a real opportunity and transformation. Governments and community organizations across the country are recognizing the importance of re-entry support. While much work remains to be done, many programs are already making a real difference. Here are just a few examples: The Dannon Project in Alabama provides 12 months of comprehensive re-entry services, including job readiness, placement, and retention. It provides both pre- and post-release services to support individuals re-entering society, which includes job coaching, career support, and other necessary services to help participants reintegrate successfully. The Reentry Success Center in Richmond, California, acts as a comprehensive hub for re-entry resources. It offers a variety of services, including access to computer labs, job training, housing assistance, health services, and more, all under one roof. The Fortune Society in New York offers a holistic re-entry model, including housing, education, employment, family services, and substance abuse treatment. The Mentally Ill Offender Community Transition Program (MIOCTP) in Washington provides pre-release planning and post-release housing and behavioral health services for individuals with serious mental illness. Results show that participants in this program are less likely to be convicted of a new felony compared to a matched group. As these programs show, re-entry support changes lives and strengthens communities. The road from prison to the community is never an easy one, but with the right interventions at the right times, successful reintegration is possible. As a social worker, you have the power to help design the programs and policies that make this happen. But to achieve that, you have to collaborate across sectors while using the right re-entry software and data to drive your decisions. By keeping a clear focus on individuals' needs and using the right tools to reduce recidivism, you can help ensure that the re-entry process opens the door to a real opportunity and transformation. Governments and community organizations across the country are recognizing the importance of re-entry support. While much work remains to be done, many programs are already making a real difference. Here are just a few examples: The Dannon Project in Alabama provides 12 months of comprehensive re-entry services, including job readiness, placement, and retention. It provides both pre- and post-release services to support individuals re-entering society, which includes job coaching, career support, and other necessary services to help participants reintegrate successfully. The Reentry Success Center in Richmond, California, acts as a comprehensive hub for re-entry resources. It offers a variety of services, including access to computer labs, job training, housing assistance, health services, and more, all under one roof. The Fortune Society in New York offers a holistic re-entry model, including housing, education, employment, family services, and substance abuse treatment. The Mentally Ill Offender Community Transition Program (MIOCTP) in Washington provides pre-release planning and post-release housing and behavioral health services for individuals with serious mental illness. Results show that participants in this program are less likely to be convicted of a new felony compared to a matched group. As these programs show, re-entry support changes lives and strengthens communities. The road from prison to the community is never an easy one, but with the right interventions at the right times, successful reintegration is possible. As a social worker, you have the power to help design the programs and policies that make this happen. But to achieve that, you have to collaborate across sectors while using the right re-entry software and data to drive your decisions. By keeping a clear focus on individuals' needs and using the right tools to reduce recidivism, you can help ensure that the re-entry process opens the door to a real opportunity and transformation. Governments and community organizations across the country are recognizing the importance of re-entry support. While much work remains to be done, many programs are already making a real difference. Here are just a few examples: The Dannon Project in Alabama provides 12 months of comprehensive re-entry services, including job readiness, placement, and retention. It provides both pre- and post-release services to support individuals re-entering society, which includes job coaching, career support, and other necessary services to help participants reintegrate successfully. The Reentry Success Center in Richmond, California, acts as a comprehensive hub for re-entry resources. It offers a variety of services, including access to computer labs, job training, housing assistance, health services, and more, all under one roof. The Fortune Society in New York offers a holistic re-entry model, including housing, education, employment, family services, and substance abuse treatment. The Mentally Ill Offender Community Transition Program (MIOCTP) in Washington provides pre-release planning and post-release housing and behavioral health services for individuals with serious mental illness. Results show that participants in this program are less likely to be convicted of a new felony compared to a matched group. As these programs show, re-entry support changes lives and strengthens communities. The road from prison to the community is never an easy one, but with the right interventions at the right times, successful reintegration is possible. As a social worker, you have the power to help design the programs and policies that make this happen. But to achieve that, you have to collaborate across sectors while using the right re-entry software and data to drive your decisions. By keeping a clear focus on individuals' needs and using the right tools to reduce recidivism, you can help ensure that the re-entry process opens the door to a real opportunity and transformation. Governments and community organizations across the country are recognizing the importance of re-entry support. While much work remains to be done, many programs are already making a real difference. Here are just a few examples: The Dannon Project in Alabama provides 12 months of comprehensive re-entry services, including job readiness, placement, and retention. It provides both pre- and post-release services to support individuals re-entering society, which includes job coaching, career support, and other necessary services to help participants reintegrate successfully. The Reentry Success Center in Richmond, California, acts as a comprehensive hub for re-entry resources. It offers a variety of services, including access to computer labs, job training, housing assistance, health services, and more, all under one roof. The Fortune Society in New York offers a holistic re-entry model, including housing, education, employment, family services, and substance abuse treatment. The Mentally Ill Offender Community Transition Program (MIOCTP) in Washington provides pre-release planning and post-release housing and behavioral health services for individuals with serious mental illness. Results show that participants in this program are less likely to be convicted of a new felony compared to a matched group. As these programs show, re-entry support changes lives and strengthens communities. The road from prison to the community is never an easy one, but with the right interventions at the right times, successful reintegration is possible. As a social worker, you have the power to help design the programs and policies that make this happen. But to achieve that, you have to collaborate across sectors while using the right re-entry software and data to drive your decisions. By keeping a clear focus on individuals' needs and using the right tools to reduce recidivism, you can help ensure that the re-entry process opens the door to a real opportunity and transformation. Governments and community organizations across the country are recognizing the importance of re-entry support. While much work remains to be done, many programs are already making a real difference. Here are just a few examples: The Dannon Project in Alabama provides 12 months of comprehensive re-entry services, including job readiness, placement, and retention. It provides both pre- and post-release services to support individuals re-entering society, which includes job coaching, career support, and other necessary services to help participants reintegrate successfully. The Reentry Success Center in Richmond, California, acts as a comprehensive hub for re-entry resources. It offers a variety of services, including access to computer labs, job training, housing assistance, health services, and more, all under one roof. The Fortune Society in New York offers a holistic re-entry model, including housing, education, employment, family services, and substance abuse treatment. The Mentally Ill Offender Community Transition Program (MIOCTP) in Washington provides pre-release planning and post-release housing and behavioral health services for individuals with serious mental illness. Results show that participants in this program are less likely to be convicted of a new felony compared to a matched group. As these programs show, re-entry support changes lives and strengthens communities. The road from prison to the community is never an easy one, but with the right interventions at the right times, successful reintegration is possible. As a social worker, you have the power to help design the programs and policies that make this happen. But to achieve that, you have to collaborate across sectors while using the right re-entry software and data to drive your decisions. By keeping a clear focus on individuals' needs and using the right tools to reduce recidivism, you can help ensure that the re-entry process opens the door to a real opportunity and transformation. Governments and community organizations across the country are recognizing the importance of re-entry support. While much work remains to be done, many programs are already making a real difference. Here are just a few examples: The Dannon Project in Alabama provides 12 months of comprehensive re-entry services, including job readiness, placement, and retention. It provides both pre- and post-release services to support individuals re-entering society, which includes job coaching, career support, and other necessary services to help participants reintegrate successfully. The Reentry Success Center in Richmond, California, acts as a comprehensive hub for re-entry resources. It offers a variety of services, including access to computer labs, job training, housing assistance, health services, and more, all under one roof. The Fortune Society in New York offers a holistic re-entry model, including housing, education, employment, family services, and substance abuse treatment. The Mentally Ill Offender Community Transition Program (MIOCTP) in Washington provides pre-release planning and post-release housing and behavioral health services for individuals with serious mental illness. Results show that participants in this program are less likely to be convicted of a new felony compared to a matched group. As these programs show, re-entry support changes lives and strengthens communities. The road from prison to the community is never an easy one, but with the right interventions at the right times, successful reintegration is possible. As a social worker, you have the power to help design the programs and policies that make this happen. But to achieve that, you have to collaborate across sectors while using the right re-entry software and data to drive your decisions. By keeping a clear focus on individuals' needs and using the right tools to reduce recidivism, you can help ensure that the re-entry process opens the door to a real opportunity and transformation. Governments and community organizations across the country are recognizing the importance of re-entry support. While much work remains to be done, many programs are already making a real difference. Here are just a few examples: The Dannon Project in Alabama provides 12 months of comprehensive re-entry services, including job readiness, placement, and retention. It provides both pre- and post-release services to support individuals re-entering society, which includes job coaching, career support, and other necessary services to help participants reintegrate successfully. The Reentry Success Center in Richmond, California, acts as a comprehensive hub for re-entry resources. It offers a variety of services, including access to computer labs, job training, housing assistance, health services, and more, all under one roof. The Fortune Society in New York offers a holistic re-entry model, including housing, education, employment, family services, and substance abuse treatment. The Mentally Ill Offender Community Transition Program (MIOCTP) in Washington provides pre-release planning and post-release housing and behavioral health services for individuals with serious mental illness. Results show that participants in this program are less likely to be convicted of a new felony compared to a matched group. As these programs show, re-entry support changes lives and strengthens communities. The road from prison to the community is never an easy one, but with the right interventions at the right times, successful reintegration is possible. As a social worker, you have the power to help design the programs and policies that make this happen. But to achieve that, you have to collaborate across sectors while using the right re-entry software and data to drive your decisions. By keeping a clear focus on individuals' needs and using the right tools to reduce recidivism, you can help ensure that the re-entry process opens the door to a real opportunity and transformation. Governments and community organizations across the country are recognizing the importance of re-entry support. While much work remains to be done, many programs are already making a real difference. Here are just a few examples: The Dannon Project in Alabama provides 12 months of comprehensive re-entry services, including job readiness, placement, and retention. It provides both pre- and post-release services to support individuals re-entering society, which includes job coaching, career support, and other necessary services to help participants reintegrate successfully. The Reentry Success Center in Richmond, California, acts as a comprehensive hub for re-entry resources. It offers a variety of services, including access to computer labs, job training, housing assistance, health services, and more, all under one roof. The Fortune Society in New York offers a holistic re-entry model, including housing, education, employment, family services, and substance abuse treatment. The Mentally Ill Offender Community Transition Program (MIOCTP) in Washington provides pre-release planning and post-release housing and behavioral health services for individuals with serious mental illness. Results show that participants in this program are less likely to be convicted of a new felony compared to a matched group. As these programs show, re-entry support changes lives and strengthens communities. The road from prison to the community is never an easy one, but with the right interventions at the right times, successful reintegration is possible. As a social worker, you have the power to help design the programs and policies that make this happen. But to achieve that, you have to collaborate across sectors while using the right re-entry software and data to drive your decisions. By keeping a clear focus on individuals' needs and using the right tools to reduce recidivism, you can help ensure that the re-entry process opens the door to a real opportunity and transformation. Governments and community organizations across the country are recognizing the importance of re-entry support. While much work remains to be done, many programs are already making a real difference. Here are just a few examples: The Dannon Project in Alabama provides 12 months of comprehensive re-entry services, including job readiness, placement, and retention. It provides both pre- and post-release services to support individuals re-entering society, which includes job coaching, career support, and other necessary services to help participants reintegrate successfully. The Reentry Success Center in Richmond, California, acts as a comprehensive hub for re-entry resources. It offers a variety of services, including access to computer labs, job training, housing assistance, health services, and more, all under one roof. The Fortune Society in New York offers a holistic re-entry model, including housing, education, employment, family services, and substance abuse treatment. The Mentally Ill Offender Community Transition Program (MIOCTP) in Washington provides pre-release planning and post-release housing and behavioral health services for individuals with serious mental illness. Results show that participants in this program are less likely to be convicted of a new felony compared to a matched group. As these programs show, re-entry support changes lives and strengthens communities. The road from prison to the community is never an easy one, but with the right interventions at the right times, successful reintegration is possible. As a social worker, you have the power to help design the programs and policies that make this happen. But to achieve that, you have to collaborate across sectors while using the right re-entry software and data to drive your decisions. By keeping a clear focus on individuals' needs and using the right tools to reduce recidivism, you can help ensure that the re-entry process opens the door to a real opportunity and transformation.

What Are the 3 Elements of Successful Re-Entry Programs for Inmates? Three key elements of successful re-entry programs for offenders and inmates are pre-release planning, post-release support, and ongoing monitoring and evaluation. How Effective Is a Re-Entry Program? The effectiveness of re-entry programs varies, but well-designed programs can significantly reduce recidivism rates. Which States Have the Best Re-Entry Programs? Some states with successful re-entry programs include Virginia, Washington, California, and Alabama. Which Factor Has the Strongest Impact on Successful Re-Entry? Housing is one of the factors that have the strongest impact on successful re-entry and reducing recidivism. What Are the 3 Elements of Successful Re-Entry Programs for Inmates? Three key elements of successful re-entry programs for offenders and inmates are pre-release planning, post-release support, and ongoing monitoring and evaluation. How Effective Is a Re-Entry Program? The effectiveness of re-entry programs varies, but well-designed programs can significantly reduce recidivism rates. Which States Have the Best Re-Entry Programs? Some states with successful re-entry programs include Virginia, Washington, California, and Alabama. Which Factor Has the Strongest Impact on Successful Re-Entry? Housing is one of the factors that have the strongest impact on successful re-entry and reducing recidivism. What Are the 3 Elements of Successful Re-Entry Programs for Inmates? Three key elements of successful re-entry programs for offenders and inmates are pre-release planning, post-release support, and ongoing monitoring and evaluation. How Effective Is a Re-Entry Program? The effectiveness of re-entry programs varies, but well-designed programs can significantly reduce recidivism rates. Which States Have the Best Re-Entry Programs? Some states with successful re-entry programs include Virginia, Washington, California, and Alabama. Which Factor Has the Strongest Impact on Successful Re-Entry? Housing is one of the factors that have the strongest impact on successful re-entry and reducing recidivism. What Are the 3 Elements of Successful Re-Entry Programs for Inmates? Three key elements of successful re-entry programs for offenders and inmates are pre-release planning, post-release support, and ongoing monitoring and evaluation. How Effective Is a Re-Entry Program? The effectiveness of re-entry programs varies, but well-designed programs can significantly reduce recidivism rates. Which States Have the Best Re-Entry Programs? Some states with successful re-entry programs include Virginia, Washington, California, and Alabama. Which Factor Has the Strongest Impact on Successful Re-Entry? Housing is one of the factors that have the strongest impact on successful re-entry and reducing recidivism. What Are the 3 Elements of Successful Re-Entry Programs for Inmates? Three key elements of successful re-entry programs for offenders and inmates are pre-release planning, post-release support, and ongoing monitoring and evaluation. How Effective Is a Re-Entry Program? The effectiveness of re-entry programs varies, but well-designed programs can significantly reduce recidivism rates. Which States Have the Best Re-Entry Programs? Some states with successful re-entry programs include Virginia, Washington, California, and Alabama. Which Factor Has the Strongest Impact on Successful Re-Entry? Housing is one of the factors that have the strongest impact on successful re-entry and reducing recidivism. What Are the 3 Elements of Successful Re-Entry Programs for Inmates? Three key elements of successful re-entry programs for offenders and inmates are pre-release planning, post-release support, and ongoing monitoring and evaluation. How Effective Is a Re-Entry Program? The effectiveness of re-entry programs varies, but well-designed programs can significantly reduce recidivism rates. Which States Have the Best Re-Entry Programs? Some states with successful re-entry programs include Virginia, Washington, California, and Alabama. Which Factor Has the Strongest Impact on Successful Re-Entry? Housing is one of the factors that have the strongest impact on successful re-entry and reducing recidivism. What Are the 3 Elements of Successful Re-Entry Programs for Inmates? Three key elements of successful re-entry programs for offenders and inmates are pre-release planning, post-release support, and ongoing monitoring and evaluation. How Effective Is a Re-Entry Program? The effectiveness of re-entry programs varies, but well-designed programs can significantly reduce recidivism rates. Which States Have the Best Re-Entry Programs? Some states with successful re-entry programs include Virginia, Washington, California, and Alabama. Which Factor Has the Strongest Impact on Successful Re-Entry? Housing is one of the factors that have the strongest impact on successful re-entry and reducing recidivism. What Are the 3 Elements of Successful Re-Entry Programs for Inmates? Three key elements of successful re-entry programs for offenders and inmates are pre-release planning, post-release support, and ongoing monitoring and evaluation. How Effective Is a Re-Entry Program? The effectiveness of re-entry programs varies, but well-designed programs can significantly reduce recidivism rates. Which States Have the Best Re-Entry Programs? Some states with successful re-entry programs include Virginia, Washington, California, and Alabama. Which Factor Has the Strongest Impact on Successful Re-Entry? Housing is one of the factors that have the strongest impact on successful re-entry and reducing recidivism. What Are the 3 Elements of Successful Re-Entry Programs for Inmates? Three key elements of successful re-entry programs for offenders and inmates are pre-release planning, post-release support, and ongoing monitoring and evaluation. How Effective Is a Re-Entry Program? The effectiveness of re-entry programs varies, but well-designed programs can significantly reduce recidivism rates. Which States Have the Best Re-Entry Programs? Some states with successful re-entry programs include Virginia, Washington, California, and Alabama. Which Factor Has the Strongest Impact on Successful Re-Entry? Housing is one of the factors that have the strongest impact on successful re-entry and reducing recidivism. What Are the 3 Elements of Successful Re-Entry Programs for Inmates? Three key elements of successful re-entry programs for offenders and inmates are pre-release planning, post-release support, and ongoing monitoring and evaluation. How Effective Is a Re-Entry Program? The effectiveness of re-entry programs varies, but well-designed programs can significantly reduce recidivism rates. Which States Have the Best Re-Entry Programs? Some states with successful re-entry programs include Virginia, Washington, California, and Alabama. Which Factor Has the Strongest Impact on Successful Re-Entry? Housing is one of the factors that have the strongest impact on successful re-entry and reducing recidivism.