What is Second Chance Month?

Second Chance Month recognizes the importance of helping individuals, communities, and agencies across the country appreciate their role in supporting the safe and successful reentry of millions of people returning from incarceration each year. Second Chance Month aims to inform and highlight the many opportunities for state, local, and tribal governments and community-based service providers to build meaningful second chances for our returning community members.

During Second Chance Month, the National Reentry Resource Center (NRRC)  working in partnership with OJP's Bureau of Justice Assistance and Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, will be the nation’s one-stop destination to learn more about the events and resources throughout April. These events, including webinars, and resources such as publications, videos, and more, are designed to support Second Chance Act (SCA) grantees and communities around the country in planning, implementing, evaluating, and sustaining reentry programs and practices that support individuals transitioning from incarceration as well as their families.

DCS Reentry Services Division has over 50 field staff including Community Coordinators, Reentry Coordinators, Housing Program Specialists, and M.O.R.E Officers who all provide direct support to justice-involved individuals. They work within their assigned circuit and/or Transition Centers to develop and maintain relationships with service providers and resources. Reentry Services Team assists with case management of high-needs cases, referring individuals to housing, employment, health services, and other resources when identified as a need. During the Second Chance month, the team will host Reentry Resource events around the state to link individuals to services and resources in their communities. Additional event information will be posted here and on our social media platforms.