NCJ Number
241896
Date Published
October 2010
Length
15 pages
Annotation
After reviewing the history of procedures for releasing individuals from incarceration into the community, this paper discusses how model reentry programs can assist in the reentry process, with attention to the qualities that are similar across model programs in the United States, followed by the highlighting of a San Francisco model reentry project, the No Violence Alliance (NoVA).
Abstract
The historical review of reentry procedures notes that the 21st century has brought a focus on community involvement in reentry, collaboration among various agencies, and programs intended to reduce recidivism and the number of incarcerated individuals. Model reentry programs have received increasing attention as an effective intervention for reducing recidivism rates and increasing public safety. Effective reentry programs maximize the use of community-based organizations, minimize the use of supervision agencies, and use case-management services. The Center on Juvenile and Criminal Justice (CJCJ) advocates a reentry model in which two systems, government and non-profit organizations, cooperate in achieving the goals of decreasing incarceration rates, increasing community-based support, and intensifying case management. Case management is the process by which a staff person is given responsibility for the assessment, planning, referral, monitoring, and evaluation of an individual's progress during the reentry process. An individualized care plan is created for each client. The client essentially creates the plan, and the case manager assists his/her clients in achieving their goals. The NoVA reentry program in San Francisco focuses on individuals released from San Francisco county jail. Assisting both violent and non-violent offenders leaving county jails, one of the unique aspects of NoVA is the collaboration among various governmental and non-profit entities. Each organization in the coalition provides a variety of services, including housing, mental health services, case management, and employment assistance. 3 tables and 34 references