The Lycoming Reentry Service Center, which opened in 2014 to help reduce jail crowding and chronic recidivism, marked its 10th year in operation with an open house and graduation for participants who had recently completed the program successfully.
The graduation was held first at Lycoming College in Williamsport. More than 50 graduates were invited, and while local storms and flooding depressed attendance below normal, the graduating group and speakers were spirited in their praise of the program and the impact it is making on the lives of participants.
Attendees included family, friends, program staff, local probation officials, members of the judiciary and local organizations that support these individuals in their reentry journey. Several speakers addressed the graduates, including County Commissioner Mark Mussina and John Stahl, deputy chief of probation and a strong proponent of the reentry center, and a couple of program graduates who inspired the group to stay focused on their goals and be positive contributors in the community.
The graduation was followed by an open house at the new location for the Reentry Service Center in Williamsport.
The Lycoming County RSC was opened in 2014 by county officials to help alleviate jail overcrowding and tackle chronic recidivism. Since then, there have been nearly 2,000 program referrals and 700 successful completions. The impact has reduced jail crowding significantly and lowered the criminal risk of individuals enrolled in the program.
The center is operated by GEO Reentry and provides a structured combination of cognitive behavioral treatment, training and case management designed to change criminal thinking and reduce recidivism. Participants are required to take part in a multi-phase program that includes classes designed to improve communication skills, teach problem solving and conflict resolution, and develop parenting and employment skills. GEO Reentry operates several reentry programs in Pennsylvania.
The program capacity was expanded last year, and today 110 individuals are enrolled. In addition, GEO Reentry began providing services to youth involved in the justice system and helping prepare individuals incarcerated in the Lycoming County Prison to prepare for community release.
