The Erie Outpatient Reentry Service Center hosted a celebration for Second Chance Month this spring, and the stars of the event were program participants who shared their artistic skills in creating posters that expressed their support for reentry services. The colorful and uplifting posters highlighted the various services delivered within the GEO Reentry Services program, including 18 weekly group sessions, individual case management and counseling sessions with participants, and alcohol and drug treatment services.
“We take pride in the services we provide daily at our center to help individuals to establish a productive lifestyle and stop the cycle of recidivism,” Annette Garcia, Program Director, said. “We encourage group activities such as this Second Chance Month event to develop pro-social skills, and we were very pleased with the results and effort participants delivered.”
The center accommodates male and female participants referred from the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections and Community Behavioral Health, a Philadelphia nonprofit, and walk-ins. The Erie Outpatient RSC is a licensed drug and alcohol treatment facility.
“Our staff believes in second chances and works hard to deliver the tools that enable individuals to have an opportunity for a new start,” Ms. Garcia said.
The participants created the posters with great care, adding many motivational headlines, including “Recovery is a Must” and “Hoping for a Second Chance.” Participants all received t-shirts with a printed message of “We Believe in Second Chances.”
The center provides additional services including substance abuse treatment, cognitive behavioral treatment, life skills, core skills, family sessions, Batterer’s Intervention and trauma-informed care. The center also provides links to valuable local resources that support reentry.