The Rockford Reentry Services Center, a non-residential GEO Reentry program funded by the Illinois Department of Corrections, hosted a transition celebration in September for 15 participants who successfully completed the intensive reentry program. Lori Bridge, commander of parole for Winnebago County, served as the ceremony’s keynote speaker. Agent Lombardo from Winnebago County also attended and spoke to the crowd, as did Rockford RSC Program Manager Sherry Pearson and three of the RSC’s case managers.
All wished the graduates well and hoped they would take a message of recovery and positivity with them in the future. The day was a hallmark for participants and commemorated their completion of the evidence-based reentry program.
The Rockford RSC provides a highly structured program that holds participants accountable for schedules and participation, but also assists participants transitioning back to the community with various treatment and training classes and connections to supportive community services. Participants are referred to the program by the Illinois Department of Corrections’ Parole Division.
“The evidence-based programming we provide are tools for change,” said Pearson. “Transition celebrations are very rewarding for our participants and staff. We have seen many former participants move on to a positive lifestyle using the tools we provide.”
Participants at the Rockford RSC typically complete the reentry program within five to nine months, during which time they have access to resources for substance abuse, anger management, employment and education, family reunification and health services. Participants are referred to local providers and organizations as needed through the center’s Community Connections program.
The center recently partnered with the community in an effort to give back, joining the annual Love Rockford event. The purpose of the event was to link community members in need of physical, emotional and spiritual support with local services, such as food, clothing and counseling. It was a successful event and emphasized the Rockford RSC’s commitment to healing and community support.
Read more about our non-residential reentry programming and get the latest news from other GEO Reentry centers.