April marks Second Chance Month, a time to highlight and support individuals transitioning from the criminal justice system back into their communities.
At West Side Forward, we reaffirm our commitment to empowering individuals seeking reentry in our West Side communities. Through our JI2 (Justice Impacted) Program, we provide critical resources and support to individuals who have been formerly incarcerated, charged with, or convicted of a crime.
The JI2 Program: A Path to Reintegration
The JI2 Program offers a variety of services to support individuals as they transition back into society, including:
- Stipends to assist with financial stability during reentry
- Mental wellness support to address emotional and psychological challenges
- Reentry readiness resources to equip individuals with the skills they need to thrive
- Job placement to help secure stable, meaningful employment
- Other supportive services to ensure long-term success
We are proud to deliver these resources with funding from the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority (ICJIA).
Key Topics in Reentry
As we continue to highlight Second Chance Month, we want to draw attention to several important topics that impact individuals reentering society.
Felony Disenfranchisement: A Barrier to Civic Participation
Felony disenfranchisement refers to the practice of denying individuals convicted of felonies the right to vote or participate in certain civic activities. In many states, individuals who have served their time still face restrictions on their voting rights, even after they’ve been released from prison. This policy disproportionately affects minority communities, leading to continued disenfranchisement and a sense of exclusion from the democratic process.
Expungement: Clearing the Path for a Fresh Start
Expungement is the legal process through which a criminal record is sealed or destroyed. This means that the record is no longer accessible through state or federal databases. Expungement can be a vital step for individuals who want to move forward, as it removes the barriers that often prevent access to employment, housing, and education.
Unfortunately, the process can be complex and not all individuals are eligible. That’s why it’s so important to provide access to legal resources that can guide people through this process.
Recidivism: Breaking the Cycle
Recidivism refers to the tendency for formerly incarcerated individuals to reoffend and return to incarceration. This cycle is often fueled by a lack of resources, mental health challenges, and the difficulty of finding stable housing and employment.
Breaking the cycle of recidivism requires meaningful support, opportunities for education and employment, and access to mental health and substance abuse treatment. Programs like JI2 are designed to address these barriers and help individuals reintegrate successfully into society.
Resources and Support for Returning Home
For individuals returning home after incarceration, access to resources and support can make all the difference. If you or someone you know is looking for assistance with reentry, we encourage you to connect with us.
Text BACKHOME to 773-269-3479 to learn more about the resources and services available through the JI2 Program and other local organizations dedicated to supporting reentry.