Offender reentry happens when an individual re-establishes his/her life in the community release from prison. “ReEntry” includes: reconnecting with family and friends; establishing employment and residence; addressing substance abuse; and finding ways to make a positive contribution to the community. Successful ReEntry enhances public safety and reduces crime, in addition to improving individual and family life.

ReEntry Steering Committee Strategic Planning

• In June 2006, a proposed action plan that incorporated training/education, housing, treatment, and employment was completed. This plan has been used to guide the work of the Steering Committee.
• The committee gathered data on DC’s re-entrant (released six months - one year) population returning from prison or the Department of Corrections.
• The Washington, DC Office of Ex-Offender Affairs (OEOA), oeoa.dc.gov, serves as a coordinating agency for efforts and services pertaining to the District’s returning residents. OEOA’s Interim Director, Theodore Sweet, and CSOSA’s Acting Deputy Director, Cedric Hendricks, co-chair the ReEntry Steering Committee.