Corrections_Today_Spring_2025_Vol.87_No.1

REENTRY

viewing their role solely as one of enforcement and com pliance, officers are increasingly adopting a more holistic perspective — one that emphasizes support, guidance and collaboration with individuals under supervision. This shift is crucial in helping individuals under supervi sion navigate the myriad obstacles they face, ultimately leading to more successful reintegration outcomes. By making Reentry Simulations a mandatory part of training, Florida Community Corrections has demon strated its commitment to fostering a more empathetic and effective workforce that is dedicated to the reen try of those they supervise. This initiative not only enhances the ability of probation officers to support individuals under supervision but also contributes to the broader goal of reducing recidivism and promoting public safety. In the end, the Reentry Simulations are more than just a training tool; they are a vital com ponent of a larger strategy to create a more effective correctional system. In April 2023, the National Institute of Correc tions (NIC) facilitated a meeting in Tampa, Florida, where approximately 25 of the nation’s top Commu nity Corrections leaders gathered. This event marked a significant moment for many of the attendees, as most had never before participated in a Reentry Simulation. The Simulation provided these leaders with a firsthand understanding of the complex and often overwhelming obstacles that returning citizens encounter. The impact of the simulation was incredible. Network members left the meeting with a deeper understanding and a renewed commitment to improving reentry outcomes within their respective jurisdictions. The exercise not only opened their eyes to the harsh realities of reintegration but also inspired innovative approaches to supporting individu als under supervision. Additionally, numerous local and national conferenc es are now incorporating Reentry Simulations into their sessions. Within the last year, simulations were conduct ed at the Florida Association of Community Corrections Annual Institute, the American Probation and Parole Association Annual Conference and an American Cor rectional Association Conference. These events have further amplified the importance of experiential learning in Community Corrections, equipping leaders with the tools and insights necessary to drive meaningful change in reentry practices across the country.

Photo courtesy Florida Department of Corrections

efforts to reintegrate, and they are better equipped to provide the kind of support that addresses these chal lenges head-on. Probation Officers who helped conduct the simulations have shared powerful insights into the ef fectiveness of the exercise. Bureau Chief Sharon Davis noted, “I thought I understood the difficulties our offenders face, but walking through it myself opened my eyes to just how relentless the system can be. Even something as simple as not having the right paperwork can set off a chain reaction that’s hard to recover from.” Probation Officer Ryan Flaherty commented, “The simu lation was a real wake-up call. It’s one thing to know about these challenges in theory, but it’s another to ex perience the frustration of trying to make it all work. It’s made me rethink how I approach my cases.” These firsthand accounts from those participating in the simulations enforce the value of this training tool. Not only do the simulations create a more empathetic and understanding workforce, but they also inspire staff to think creatively about how to support individu als under supervision more effectively. As Probation Officer Harriet Holston put it, “This experience has really driven home the importance of being patient and resourceful. The people we supervise are navigating a maze, and it’s our job to help them find the way out.” Additionally, the simulations have prompted a shift in how probation officers approach their work. Rather than

Corrections Today | Spring 2025

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