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Abstract: 

A criminal conviction in the United States can bring sanctions and disqualifications that present social, economic, and political barriers to justice-impacted citizens reentering society long after they have served their sentence. Barriers to accessing education, housing, and employment are important variables that can affect recidivism, public safety, and economic prosperity. This study examines evidence-based reentry and reintegration practices within the realm of community corrections with respect to workforce development and secondary and postsecondary educational opportunities that can be effective in reducing recidivism. It also considers the importance of collaborative strategies between community corrections agencies and surrounding partners such as state school systems, universities, employers, community colleges, and trade and vocational schools. The closing discussion focuses on innovative strategies and policy considerations for community corrections practitioners, administrators, and frontline workers to better serve clients under their supervision. A multifaceted approach involving a village of networks is required when working with justice-involved citizens. Recidivism affects not only community supervision and clients but also clients’ families, communities, and the overall economy. As more individuals are released from prisons and jails into community supervision, a transformation within the field of community corrections that emphasizes partnerships, prosocial activities, and empowerment will be required for increased reentry success.

Keywords: Community corrections, reentry, education, workforce development, reintegration practices

Affiliations:  1: The Ohio State University.