The Perth Amboy, N.J., Community Resource Center, a non-residential reentry program that provides treatment and training for parolees under the supervision of NJ Parole Board, is off to a great start in 2022. The CRC has achieved a 100% program completion rate for the first quarter of 2022. All 19 participants were discharged successfully after completing their program requirements. This follows a very successful 2021, in which the CRC achieved an 85% program completion rate (64 of 74 clients).
Pete Conerly, Program Manager, noted that this auspicious start is due primarily to the efforts of program staff who interact well and genuinely engage with the participants. “This is a team effort with Case Managers working together and with guidance from the Supervising Case Manager,” he said.
The Perth Amboy CRC opened in 2006 to ease prison overcrowding and reduce recidivism rates among adult parolees. Parolees referred to the center receive evidence-based cognitive behavioral treatment, which is proven to reduce recidivism. The extensive programming also includes life skill training, case management, workforce development, and community connections that network parolees with local nonprofits and community services. Program participants are either employed or enrolled in community college upon graduation.
Staff regularly confer with colleagues and the Parole Liaison Officer to address and resolve issues before they adversely affect a participant’s progress in the program. The CRC also eliminated the required 30-day blackout employment period. This has engaged more individuals to participate in the program.
Furthermore, Conerly believes the current contract provisions permit services that are more tailored to the individual’s needs and allow flexibility with the scheduling of client services. “The New Jersey CRCs will implement a more client-focused orientation phase, which we anticipate will further support positive participant outcomes,” he added.