ReEntry Services
Preparing Individuals to Successfully Return to the Community
Every year, individuals leave the Leon County Detention Facility and return to neighborhoods throughout Leon County. The transition from incarceration back to the community can present many challenges, including finding employment, securing housing, reconnecting with family, and accessing health or behavioral health services.
Reentry preparation helps individuals address these challenges before release so they can return to the community better prepared for success.
At the Leon County Detention Facility, reentry preparation focuses on providing individuals with the tools, guidance, and connections needed to build stable and productive lives after release. Effective reentry preparation benefits not only the individual, but also families, neighborhoods, and the community as a whole.
Why Reentry Preparation Matters
Most individuals incarcerated in county jails will eventually return to the community. Preparing individuals for that transition is an important part of public safety.
Reentry preparation helps:
• Reduce repeat offenses
• Increase employment opportunities
• Strengthen families
• Improve long-term stability for returning citizens
• Enhance public safety in the community
When individuals leave custody with a plan and support system in place, they are more likely to successfully reintegrate into society.
Reentry Case Management
Reentry Case Management is designed to help individuals identify barriers to success and develop a plan to address those challenges prior to release.
Reentry Case Managers work directly with incarcerated individuals to assess their needs, develop a reentry plan, and connect them with resources that will support their transition back into the community.
Case management may include:
• Individual reentry planning
• Identification of employment goals
• Job readiness preparation
• Assistance with obtaining identification documents
• Connection to housing resources
• Referral to treatment or recovery services
• Coordination with community support organizations
• Preparation for education or vocational training
The goal is to ensure that individuals leave custody with a clear path forward and knowledge of available community resources.
Reentry Preparation Inside the Facility
Preparation for release begins while individuals are still in custody. The detention facility works to provide opportunities that support personal growth, education, and life stability.
Educational Opportunities
Educational programs help individuals develop the knowledge and skills needed for long-term success.
Programs may include:
• GED preparation
• Literacy development
• Financial literacy education
• Life skills training
Vocational and Employment Readiness
Employment is one of the most important factors in successful reentry.
Vocational and employment preparation may include:
• Job readiness training
• Resume development
• Interview preparation
• Workforce preparation
• Employer engagement opportunities
Personal Development and Transformation
Programs that support personal growth can help individuals develop better decision-making skills and prepare for life after incarceration.
These opportunities may include:
• Cognitive and behavioral programming
• Mentoring programs
• Goal-setting and personal development
Spiritual Support
Faith-based programs and chaplaincy services provide support to individuals seeking spiritual guidance and personal transformation.
These services may include:
• Faith-based mentoring
• Religious services
• Spiritual counseling
• Volunteer-led support programs
Connecting Individuals to Community Resources
Successful reentry requires strong partnerships between the detention facility and community organizations.
Reentry staff work to connect individuals with local service providers who can continue supporting them after release. These partnerships help bridge the gap between incarceration and community reintegration.
Community connections may include services related to:
• Employment assistance
• Housing support
• Behavioral health services
• Substance use recovery programs
• Educational opportunities
• Veteran services
• Family support services
By connecting individuals with community resources prior to release, reentry preparation helps ensure that support continues after individuals return home.
Employer Partnerships and Second Chance Hiring
Employment plays a critical role in successful reentry. The detention facility works with employers who are willing to provide opportunities for individuals returning from incarceration.
Second chance employment helps individuals build stability and supports the local workforce by connecting employers with motivated job seekers.
Employers interested in participating in reentry initiatives, workforce partnerships, or hiring events are encouraged to contact the Reentry Services team.
Community and Volunteer Partnerships
Reentry success depends on the involvement of the broader community. Faith organizations, nonprofits, mentors, and volunteers play an important role in supporting individuals returning from incarceration.
Community partners may assist by:
• Providing mentoring and encouragement
• Offering employment opportunities
• Supporting educational programs
• Assisting families of incarcerated individuals
• Providing transportation or basic needs support
Community organizations interested in partnering with the detention facility are encouraged to reach out to learn more about available opportunities.
Supporting Successful Reentry
The goal of reentry preparation is to help individuals leave the detention facility better prepared to become productive members of the community.
By focusing on education, employment readiness, personal development, and community partnerships, the Leon County Detention Facility works to support individuals who are returning home and seeking a second chance.
Successful reentry strengthens families, reduces recidivism, and contributes to a safer and stronger community for everyone.
Contact Reentry Service
For more information about Reentry Case Management, community partnerships, volunteer opportunities, or employer engagement, please contact:
Bradley Janowski-Bradley.Janowski@LeonFLSheriff.gov
Shonda Knight- Shonda.Knight@LeonFLSheriff.gov