OUR MISSION
Our mission is to build a strong, national network comprised of individuals returning from incarceration who support each other’s successful reintegration. We use a client-centered approach to identify basic needs and to create a continuum of care that can address barriers to reentry, promote restorative practices, and reduce recidivism.
OUR VISION
Our vision is to reinvest in safe and healthy communities, create more living wage jobs, permanent housing and economic self-sufficiency for returning citizens.
OUR VALUE STATEMENT
We believe in the empowerment of returning citizens to have the control over their own futures.
We support the full re-entry of returning citizens into the civic, economic, and family structures upon their release.
We believe in the power of networking among returning citizens to ensure successful reentry.
We believe that it is imperative to support organizations led by returning citizens and to elevate their leadership.
We believe in prevention, alternatives to prison (reducing crime and recidivism)
We believe in redemption, second chances (forgiveness, love and new life)
We believe that impacted citizens should have an equal and valued voice at policy making tables.
OUR HISTORY
The National Reentry Network for Returning Citizens was formed in 2010. Co-Founder Courtney Stewart was mentoring previously incarcerated individuals who had returned to the community and found themselves displaced and frustrated. Mr. Stewart introduced these men and women to a disciplined life of focus and self-governance. As a result of introducing these men and women to spiritual principles and a way to resolve their issues, the Network was formed. Many of the people who make up the Network experience personal growth, family reunification, job retention, entrepreneurship, and getting involved in community and criminal justice reform.
The fundamental premise of restorative practices is that people are happier, more cooperative and productive, and more likely to make positive changes when those in positions of authority do things with them, rather than to them or for them.
