April is Second Chance Month – a time to recognize the importance of reentry programs and the vital role they play in supporting individuals returning home post-incarceration. 
These programs do more than help people transition back into their communities – they create opportunities for growth, healing and self-discovery. By fostering confidence, stability and purpose, reentry services empower individuals to rebuild their lives and contribute meaningfully to the communities they call home.
Learn more about why we believe in second chances on our blog post HERE: https://reentrycoalitionofnj.org/reentry-services-the-promise-and-expectation-of-second-chances/
Additionally, the Council of State Governments (CSG) Justice Center has recently released a number of new data, resources and opportunities for states across the national to help raise awareness of the power of second chances and important reentry programming and efforts to reduce recidivism and make communities safe and healthy.
- NEW DATA: State-by-State Recidivism Rate Trends Over the Past Decade – The latest analysis from the CSG Justice Center shows recidivism rates have dropped about 20% nationwide, and 22% in New Jersey over a ten year span from 2010-2020.
- NEW EVENT: CSG Justice Center is holding an event on Thursday, April 2026 (2PM) entitled, “Accelerating Reentry: Recidivism Data & A New Roadmap for Success” – CLICK HERE TO REGISTER & FOR MORE INFO.
- NEW RESOURCES: CSG Justice Center is highlighting two new research- and field-based resources to help lower barriers to housing, health care, income and other basic needs, which help break the costly and harmful cycle of incarceration for individuals:
