A Message from Kevin McHugh, Executive Director of the Reentry Coalition of New Jersey:
Most of us have benefited from the opportunity to have another chance at doing or correcting something that truly matters to us.
Every day at the Reentry Coalition of New Jersey, we witness the transformative power of “second chances” through reentry and reintegration services in a very real way. Our staff and our highly qualified and accredited members work to guide individuals, remove barriers and create second-chance opportunities for those transitioning from incarceration back into society.
During #SecondChanceMonth, we recognize the profound impact our work has on individuals, families, and communities across New Jersey.
A person coming out of the criminal justice system can face countless hurdles most of us can’t even begin to imagine – from securing employment or even an ID to obtaining a cell phone or finding a safe, stable, affordable place to call “home.” These are the everyday necessities so many of us take for granted. But, to individuals reentering society post incarceration, these complex, interwoven challenges become insurmountable obstacles as they work to rebuild their lives and stay focused on a path towards success.
Reentry represents a critical juncture for individuals exiting the criminal justice system. Most individuals want the simple opportunity or “chance” to work, to actively contribute to society, and to reconnect with their families and loved ones.
Through our network of agencies and supportive programming, our Coalition works to weave a “safety net” for individuals as they transition back into their communities – giving them the peace of mind throughout the process and support they need to succeed. The right support and even the ability to easily access quality services and programming can really make all the difference – the tipping point between a person falling back into their old ways OR forging a rewarding new life as a healthy, productive citizen.
Helping individuals transition back into society after incarceration is a compassionate, practical, and proactive investment in our communities. By providing individuals with the tools and support they need to reintegrate successfully, we’re not only transforming lives but making our communities even stronger.
At the Reentry Coalition of New Jersey, our mission is intrinsically tied to “second chances” – helping individuals rebuild their lives, restoring dignity and renewing hope. We tailor our wide-range of supportive services and programming to address the diverse needs of each individual we serve – from housing assistance, job training and mental health and substance use treatment to counseling, educational opportunities, and other essential services.
The impact of our work is profound – every single success story is a testament to the power of “second chances.” Through the work of our Coalition and agency members, it is proven that we are helping to reduce recidivism, lower crime rates, enhance public safety, and save taxpayer dollars.
As we celebrate Second Chance Month, we reaffirm our Coalition’s commitment to this vital work.
Watch and hear how our agency members offer critical reentry services to more than 9,000 people annually and serve as a voice to individuals exiting the criminal justice system – ensuring that no one has to navigate this transition alone, completely on their own. We thank each of our member agencies for their continued dedication and efforts to champion the cause of providing second chances.
It is more than fitting that the theme of this year’s #SecondChanceMonth observance is “Second Chances for Stronger Communities.” Every day, we are working alongside our agency members to create a future where there is even more opportunities for those we serve and second chances are the expectation. Together, we are not only building stronger communities – we are working to create a more just and compassionate society, as a whole.
