Making Second Chances Work: A Conference for Grantees Committed to Successful Reentry, May 26-27, 2010

Conference Session: Engaging the Media, the Public, Corrections, and Elected Officials

May 26 (10:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.) and May 27 (8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.)

For many people, the idea of an incarcerated person’s imminent return to the community can be frightening. An organization involved in reentry must be aware of common public sentiments, how these notions interplay in the media, and how they affect the decisions of elected officials and corrections officials. This session provided practical tips for educating the public, media, elected officials, and corrections agencies on how preparing people in prison or jail for their release and providing support to them upon their return is not only fiscally responsible, but also makes families and communities stronger, healthier, and safer.

Facilitators:

  • Rep. Pat Colloton, Kansas House of Representatives; Vice-Chair, Council of State Governments Justice Center Board of Directors
  • Michael Thompson, Director, Council of State Governments Justice Center
  • A.T. Wall, Director, Rhode Island Department of Corrections

Slideshow

Explore the Justice Center’s Websites
CSG Justice Center Criminal Justice / Mental Health Consensus Project Justice Reinvestment National Reentry Resource Center Reentry Policy Council