We recently announced the launch of the New Jersey Reentry Council at the New Jersey County Jail Wardens Association Conference in Atlantic City.
Funded by Pew Charitable Trusts, the Council is designed to bring together reentry stakeholders across disciplines throughout the state to share best practices, resources and overcome barriers.
With the unique expertise offered by each member, the New Jersey Reentry Council will be a resource for stakeholders to ensure those we serve are afforded every opportunity for short and long term stabilization pre and post release. We are hopeful that combined efforts through the Council will enhance an already robust reentry network throughout New Jersey.
The launch event was emceed by VOADV Senior Vice President of Reentry and Navigator, Amanda Leese. It began with welcoming remarks by VOADV President and CEO Daniel L. Lombardo. The event featured an interactive element for attendees to answer questions and share their experiences, giving everyone in the room a better idea of what they think is missing from the reentry conversation, support that is needed, and more.
The New Jersey Reentry Council launch also included a panel discussion of expert stakeholders speaking about the work they are doing and answering questions. The panel included:
- Alexandra Duncan
Senior Officer, Substance Use Prevention and Treatment Initiative
The Pew Charitable Trusts
- Eugene J. Caldwell II
Gloucester County Sheriff’s Office Corrections Division
Cumberland County Department of Corrections
President, New Jersey Wardens Association
- Chief Keith A. Germain
Vice President
New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police
- Sharon Bean, MPA
Jail Population Manager
Camden County Department of Corrections
- James E. McGreevey
Former Governor of New Jersey
Chairman of the Board, New Jersey Reentry Corporation
- James T. Plousis
Chairman
New Jersey Casino Control Commission