The JRA Newsletter - April Edition

Horizontal GOCPP Logo

Happy Second Chance Month, Maryland!


Welcome to the April Edition of the Justice Reinvestment Newsletter

The Justice Reinvestment Team at the Governor's Office of Crime Prevention and Policy (GOCPP) aims to increase information and resource-sharing, while creating and fostering a statewide-online community Newsletter.

  • Reentry Programming and Services
  • Behavioral Health Treatment and Services
  • Support for Victims and Restitution Enhancements
  • Training and Education
  • Safe Alternatives to Incarceration 
  • Pretrial Services and Programs

Please note that the Newsletter organizes all updates in chronological order under its subsections: Grants, Upcoming Events and Conferences, Meetings, and Programs.

april

Grants

1. The Performance Incentive Grant Fund (PIGF)

The Governor's Office of Crime Prevention and Policy (GOCPP)

Applications Due: Friday, April 19, 20245 by 11:59 PM

GOCPP released The FY25 Performance Incentive Grant Fund (PIGF) Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) in the beginning of March. We anticipate the release of $12.5 million dollars. Please click here for more information on the PIGF.

 

2. The FY24 Community Supervision Strategies 

The Bureau of Justice Assistance - Office of Justice Programs

Applications Due: Monday, April 29, 2024 by 8:59 PM (Grants.gov Deadline); Monday, May 6, 2024 by 8:59 PM (JustGrants Deadline)

BJA announcement

NASHP, in collaboration with The Health and Reentry Project (HARP), invites states to apply to the State Reentry Learning Collaborative.

Background: Reentry — the time when a person is transitioning to the community after a period of incarceration — is an extremely risky time for people’s health and well-being. States and the federal government have begun making historic changes to the Medicaid program to support the health and well-being of individuals during this transition.

This 18-month learning collaborative will be available to up to five state teams with pending or approved section 1115 demonstration waivers, who will receive targeted technical assistance from national experts and engage with a cohort of states leading the way in this groundbreaking work. 

If you have any additional questions, please feel free to reach out and find below the links to register for our upcoming informational webinars.


Upcoming Events & Conferences

Virtual Reentry Resource Fair - Baltimore County Public Library

(Wednesday, April 3, 2024 at 6:30 via zoom)

Join several local organizations that support reentry to share information, their services and how they support formerly incarcerated individuals in a variety of ways. Ask questions for yourself or a loved one. Attending organizations include the Maryland Reentry Resource Center, Enoch Pratt's Project ENCORE, Morgan State's RIDE Program, Return Home Baltimore, and H.O.P.E.

Contact ace@bcpl.net with any questions, comments, or interest in these events.


The Business Case for Second Chance Employment Conference: Charting a Path Forward with Corporations and Business Schools

(Thursday, April 4, 2024 at 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM)

In honor of Second Chance Month, the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania is excited to bring together business leaders, academics, administrators, state leaders, and justice impacted communities for discussions on creating pathways to sustainable employment for individuals who are formerly incarcerated. 

This in-person conference will explore labor market trends and the role corporations and business schools can play in educating the business community and future corporate leaders on the benefits of second chance employment.

Participants will hear from leading C-suite executives on the business case for second chance employment and the practical steps that companies have taken to develop and implement the hiring and advancement of practices. Click here for more information, and here to register.


returning confernece

The National Returning Citizens Conference

(Friday, April 5, 2024 through Saturday April 6, 2024)

Advancing the National conversation on resilience and second chances, at the Renaissance Capital View Hotel in Arlington, VA. Please click here or more information and registration. Registration costs $100 and includes lunch both days of the conference.


breakfast

Everyday Leadership Roundtable Breakfast - National Returning Citizens Conference

(Friday, April 5, 2024 at 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM)

Everyone Every Day a Leader. Join us for an uplifting and challenging conversation about how each of us can make a difference in our world. Click here for more information and registration. Please note, there is no cost to this portion of the conference. 


April Reentry Simulation

 Justice Reinvestment Reentry Simulation: SOLD OUT

(Wednesday, April 10, 2024 at 10:00 AM)

Another Reentry Simulation sold out at the GOCCP. Keep an eye out for future Reentry Simulation release dates. If your agency or organization is interested in holding it's own Reentry Simulation, please reach out to carly.seidman@maryland.gov for assistance. 


VOA Greenbelt

Volunteers of America - Open House (Greenbelt)

(Wednesday, April 17, 2024 from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM)


The Pre-Trial Re-Entry Resource Fair

(Thursday, April 18, 2024 at 10:00 AM)

The Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services (DPSCS) Pre-Trial Re-Entry Team invites you to the first Pre-Trial Re-Entry Resource Fair at the Maryland Transition Center in Baltimore. If you are interested in tabling, please reach out to Nakia Black, nakia.black@maryland.gov, by COB April 5th. If you are interested in attending for informational purposes, please contact nakia.black@maryland.gov.


Two Part Business Workshop - Baltimore County Public Library

(Monday April 22 & Tuesday April 23, 2024, at 6:30 PM via Zoom)

Do you have a business idea? Have you been interested in learning more about entrepreneurship and the steps involved in starting a business? In this two-part virtual workshop, learn about idea development, early-stage research, testing business feasibility and how to successfully launch your business. Participants should plan to attend both classes. Individuals who attend both are eligible for the Business Pitch Competition in May.

In May, the Business Pitch Competition invites you to pitch a business idea to a panel of judges to win funding and to turn your dreams into reality. The Second Chance Month Business Pitch Competition gives aspiring entrepreneurs who are formerly incarcerated the opportunity to pitch their business dreams to a group of experts. Winners receive helpful advice on how to transform their business idea into a reality and monetary prizes they can use to invest in their business.

Contact ace@bcpl.net with any questions or comments.


2024 Victims rights Conference

 The 2024 Maryland Victims' Rights Conference

(Tuesday, April 23, 2024 at 9:00 AM)

Come join us at the Turf Valley Resort in Ellicott City, MD for the 2024 Maryland Crime Victims' Rights Conference! The conference is hosted by the Governor's Office of Crime Prevention and Policy and the Maryland State Board of Victim Services. This in-person event will bring together experts, advocates, and community members to discuss important issues related to crime victims' rights. Don't miss this opportunity to learn, network, and make a difference in our community. Register here to secure your spot, and to learn more.

We anticipate providing Social Work Continuing Education Credits (CEUs) through a partner organization. More information will be provided prior to the conference.


VOA Greenbelt

Volunteers of America Hope Center - Open House (Baltimore)

(Wednesday, April 24, 2024 from 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM)


free her march

The Free Her March

(Wednesday, April 24, 2024 at 6:00 PM)

The FreeHer March/Rally 2024 is the 10th anniversary of the first FreeHer Rally in 2014. The purpose of this national march and rally is to uplift the national FreeHer campaign to end the incarceration of women and girls and shift resources currently spent on women's jails and prisons, to investment in Reimagining Communities and what different looks like for addressing poverty, mental illness, lack of educational resources, and lack of housing. We are marching to encourage President Biden and state governors to exercise their clemency power to release women who are aging, elderly, terminally ill, long-timers, and incarcerated women who are Survived and Punished. Register here.


mdrrc

The Maryland Reentry Resource Center Resource Fair

(Friday, April 26, 2024 at 10:00AM)

The Maryland Reentry Resource Center invites you to their Resource Fair at the Severn Center (1160 Reece Road, Severn, MD).


Happy Hour with Maryland Reentry Resource Center (MDRRC)

(Thursday, May 2, 2024 at 6:30 PM)

Join the MDRRC for their annual fundraiser as they celebrate their five years serving Annapolis and surrounding areas. The event will feature success stories from program participants, entertainment, and a special auction. Ticket cost is $75. Please contact Vanessa Bright at (301)-802-7712 about sponsorship opportunities. Hors d'oeuvres, beer, and wine are included in the price of the ticket. The event is "business attire."

hh

Re-entry Pathways: Empowering Futures Resource Fair

(Wednesday, May 8, 2024 from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM)

Project ENCORE run by The Enoch Pratt Free Library presents their Spring Resource Fair at the Central Branch Enoch Pratt Free Library (400 Cathedral Street, Baltimore, MD, 21201). This transformative event aims to bridge the gap between those seeking a fresh start and the valuable resources that can pave the way towards a brighter future. The fair is open to all, including individuals transitioning from incarceration, family members, friends, community advocates, and anyone eager to contribute to positive change in our community.

What to Expect:

  • Comprehensive Resource Hub
  • Employment Opportunities
  • Education and Skill Development
  • Legal Guidance
  • Supportive Services
  • Personal Development Workshops

Please email projectencore@prattlibrary.org with any questions. Click here for more information.


Maryland Learning Collaborative to Support MOUD Implementation for Justice-Involved Populations

(Thursday, May 16, 2024 from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM)

The Governor's Office of Crime Prevention and Policy invites you to the "Maryland Learning Collaborative to Support MOUD Implementation for Justice-Involved Populations" at the Marriott Owings Mills Metro Centre. This event is open to anyone who would like to learn more about implementing or expanding MAT/MOUD programs in your local jails and county justice system, so please share this information widely with interested stakeholders in your community. We welcome everyone to attend. If you're interested in attending, please register here.

Announcing: Keynote speaker Dr. Yngvild Olsen, MD, MPH (she/her); Director Center for Substance Abuse Treatment (CSAT)

Agenda Topics to Include:

  • National Perspectives on Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD)
  • Post-Legislative Session Updates
  • Effective Naloxone Protocols: How Much & When
  • Updates in Justice-Involved Case Law
  • Complex Clinical Cases for Managing Withdrawal
  • Stimulant Use Disorder
  • Addressing Diversion: After Action Treatment Plan
  • Pregnancy and MOUD

reup

ReUp: Reentry Redefined Conference

(Wednesday-Thursday, June 12-13, 2024)

Join us for an exciting in-person, 2 day conference at the Enoch Pratt Free Library. Our goal is to bridge the gap between agencies and returning citizens to create and highlight effective programming for formerly incarcerated individuals. The Conference is a must-attend gathering for anyone interested in reentry programs, and supporting individuals transitioning back into society. Discover innovative approaches, hear inspiring stories, and connect with professionals in the field. This conference offers a unique opportunity to learn from experts, network with like-minded individuals, and gain valuable insights. This conference is open for all agencies, companies and returning citizens who want to discover, discuss, and implement innovative, effective ways conducive for successful reintegration. This conference is CEU eligible.

To see the agenda and reserve a spot, please click here. Contact projectencore@prattlibrary.org with any questions.


F.A.C.E. Organization & Baltimore Toolbank - Resource & Community Event

(Saturday, June 22, 2024 from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM)

Calling all Vendors! We invite you to table and participate at the "Calling in the Cavalry 2" Resources Event in Baltimore City.  There will be free food, music, and fun. All are welcome to attend! Please click here to register as a vendor.

cavalry

Meetings

1. The Maryland Statewide Alliance for Returning Citizens (MSARC)

(Monday, April 23, 2024 at 9:30 AM; Recurring, every fourth Tuesday of the month via zoom)

MSARC comprises reentry service providers, returning citizens, advocates, government, corrections, and law enforcement staff working in reentry, and others who support increasing reentry resources. Meetings primarily consist of information sharing, guest speakers, and announcements about upcoming events of interest, aiming to break down silos. The next meeting will take place on April 23rd, 2024 at 9:30 AM. The meetings are open to all with an interest in reentry. Please email Dawna Cobb, MSARC Co-Chair, at marylandreentry@outlook.com to be added to the MSARC email list and to receive the Zoom link for meetings.

2. State Reentry Learning and Action Network: Implementing Medicaid Changes to Support Reentry (*ONLY FOR HEALTH AND CORRECTIONS STATE OFFICIALS*)

(Wednesday, May 15, 2024 at 4:00 PM)

The National Academy for State Health Policy (NASHP) and the Health and Reentry Project (HARP) are hosting State Reentry Learning and Action Network meetings for health and corrections state officials. The next session, on May 15, 2024 at 4:00 PM, focuses on the specifics of implementing Medicaid changes to support reentry. Click here to register. 

Likewise, if you'd like to take part in cross-state dialogue regarding the support of individuals reentering the community from incarceration, and share resources, relevant updates, and news, please consider joining the state-only group listserv at reentry@nashp.org.

Please see below for a list of resources shared during their first Learning and Action Network meeting last week:


Programs

project ENCORE

Project ENCORE 

Project ENCORE (P-ENCORE) is the Pratt Library's new restorative justice program which aims to dismantle institutional barriers and social reintegration challenges that lead to recidivism. There are three parts to P-ENCORE: Workforce Development, Digital Equity, and the Reconnection Center. Our mission is to empower formerly incarcerated individuals by equipping them with the essential tools to thrive as productive members of society. We adopt a comprehensive approach by seamlessly connecting participants with Pratt's existing wrap-around services, including housing, substance abuse rehabilitation, social work, and more, addressing their mental, emotional, financial, and physical well-being. See here for more information on their extensive programming. Our Multi-Tiered approach is designed to: 

  • Foster generational wealth and leave a lasting legacy.
  • Provide a stable source of income for participants.
  • Offer support for housing and transportation needs.
  • Create safe, inclusive spaces for open dialogue about barriers and mental health challenges.
  • Enhance self-esteem and boost participants' sense of pride and self-worth.

If you're interested in volunteering, partnering, or becoming a participant in any of our initiatives, please reach out to swalker@prattlibrary.org or kbailey@prattlibrary.org.

 

ReCOUP Business Accelerator Spring Cohort Program

(April 8, 2024 through May 29, 2024)

Click here for more information, and click here to access the program interest form.

ReCOUP Business Accelerator (ENCORE)

Create Your Life Plan Now: Your Blueprint to Reentry 

Description: "I created this workbook because I believe that reentry should begin the day after a person enter the correctional facility to serve his or her sentence. Instead, too often the process does not begin until a few months before release. This workbook focuses on soft skills, which we can take wherever we go in life, no matter what we do. Soft skills characterize how a person interacts in relationships with others, including communication, time management, problem-solving, and conflict resolution." Click here for more information.

workbook

Baltimore Veteran Reentry Resources

The Baltimore Station

Know a veteran who is soon to be released with a substance use disorder? The Baltimore Station provides wraparound support programs for homeless veterans that has a workforce program, and  a free residential program. Click here for more information, and contact James Hardy at outreach@baltimorestation.org with any questions.


Housing in Prince George's County

DXT Therapeutic Foundation

Offers shared transitional wrap around housing in Prince George's County. Call (240)-838-3707 or Michelle Hare at (240)-676-2895 for assistance.

dxt

Housing in Baltimore City

Sheppard Pratt is offering a new residential treatment program for clients with co-occuring disorders. They offer rent support and other resources for apartments in Baltimore City. For more information, contact Ziva Ritchie at (410)-382-5426.


Additional Housing Options

St. Ambrose

Four new housing spots/beds are available in partnership with Jacob's Well for justice-involved youth ages 18-24. Please contact Shalawn James at St. Ambrose for more information at shalawnj@stambros.org.


May Submissions?

To be included in May's Newsletter, please make your submission by COB Wednesday, April 24th 2024. Visit the Submission Page here for more information and to make your May Submission.

Contact carly.seidman@maryland.gov with any questions.