This month's theme is Redemption is Possible: Pathways to Progress

CUYAHOGA COUNTY, OH – For the first time, Cuyahoga County has expanded Reentry Week into Reentry Month, dedicating the month of April to raising awareness and supporting second chances for returning residents. Previously observed as a week-long initiative, Reentry Month demonstrates the County’s commitment to assisting justice-impacted individuals as they reintegrate back into our communities. Throughout the month, the County will host a series of events to educate the community about reentry services, promote successful reentry, and reduce recidivism.

"Reentry is about more than simply returning home; it's about rebuilding lives and strengthening our communities," said Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne. "Cuyahoga County is committed to providing resources and support for people involved in the justice system to help them lead successful and impactful lives."

“I strongly support reentry programs and making people more aware of them,” said Cuyahoga County Council President Dale Miller. “People who have done their time should receive assistance to return to their community and become productive, law-abiding citizens.”

Reentry Month is a part of the Cuyahoga County Office of Reentry’s broader efforts to remove stigmas around reentry and highlight ways for justice impacted individuals to successfully navigate societal barriers. The Office of Reentry serves as a funder, convener, and collaborator in the reentry space and exists to create an organizational structure that supports reentry research, community education, and best practices in the delivery of services for reentrants.

“As we observe Reentry Awareness Month, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting individuals as they transition back into our communities,” said Simeon Best, Director of the Office of Reentry. “This year we echo the voices of many who have successfully returned home and have found that redemption is possible."

This year’s Reentry Month events include:

The “Battle of the Restaurants” Workforce Development Culinary Event
Join us for an unforgettable afternoon celebrating the incredible success of culinary arts in the world of reentry—specifically here in Cuyahoga County! Each year, we highlight the impact of culinary programs and honor the amazing talent that thrives within our community. Learn more about the culinary event.

Reentry Simulation Challenge: Road to Redemption
This eye-opening and impactful reentry simulation is designed to provide participants with a firsthand experience of the challenges faced by individuals returning home after incarceration. Learn more about the challenge.

Community Expungement Clinic
The community expungement clinic is designed to help Cuyahoga County residents clear their criminal records and remove barriers to employment, housing, and more. Learn more about the clinic.

Charles R. See Forum on Reentry
The annual forum at the City Club of Cleveland honors Charles R. See's 44 years at Lutheran Metropolitan Ministry and brings attention to current issues in the field of criminal justice. Learn more about the forum.

Building Pathways Home Housing Summit
This summit aims to bring together key stakeholders, including housing partners, providers, advocates, and policymakers, from across the community to discuss important issues surrounding fair housing, highlight innovative solutions, share resources, and elevate the conversation around housing access, equity, and opportunity for individuals that have returned home to Cuyahoga County. Learn more about the summit.

To learn more about the Office of Reentry and view the full calendar of events, visit hhs.cuyahogacounty.gov/reentry.