Collaboration can strengthen reentry program
Two organizations in Washington that help people after incarceration are working together for the first time.
The Washington Statewide Reentry Council advocates Washington laws, investments, and public attitudes that improve reentry outcomes and increase public safety by supporting equitable, humane and restorative reentry systems.
“Our vision is to disrupt the cycle of mass incarceration by transforming systems so that each person is treated equitably and with dignity,” said Executive Director Janel McFeat. “The Reentry Council’s new focus will include visits to all county, city and tribal jails and providing listening circles for incarcerated people. These circles create a safe environment for information sharing and are an effective way to solicit feedback and recommendations. The feedback gathered will be crucial to creating better reentry outcomes for those releasing from incarceration.”
The Jail Technical Assistance program, part of the Department of Social and Health Services Behavioral Health Administration, helps jails in Washington by providing information and training. After attending a workshop at the 2024 Community Partnership for Transition Solutions Summer Conference, the JTA staff learned about the Statewide Reentry council’s broader focus, which now includes people released from jails and state prisons.
JTA Lead Tracy Grunenfelder shared their work with McFeat, who invited him to present at a council meeting in Bellingham. Grunenfelder explained their efforts, including jail visits and partnerships aimed at helping people reintegrate into the community.
“We provided an overview of our work experience, parameters of the jail visits, professional networks created, monthly learning events, collaborative partnerships, and sharing of resources, and we answered questions the council had,” Grunenfelder said.
“We appreciated being able to showcase the work of the Office of Forensic Mental Health Services [part of DSHS’ BHA] and the connections with community members and professionals committed to helping others,” he said. “We plan to continue collaborating with the council to address challenges associated with successful community reintegration after incarceration.”
The council meeting also featured other presentations, including updates on the new Whatcom County Jail and insights from incarcerated people about desired improvements. Additionally, there were discussions on topics like the Washington Fatherhood Council and community healing through restorative justice. In 2016, the Legislature set up the Statewide Reentry Council to enhance public safety and support people reentering communities (43.380 RCW). The council follows Gov. Inslee’s Executive Order 24–03, which aims to build safe and strong communities through successful reentry.
As of October 2024, the council comprises 15 members, reflecting diverse perspectives and expertise. It includes representatives from the Department of Corrections, the Department of Children, Youth, and Families’ Juvenile Rehabilitation Administration, and individuals from community and technical colleges. Law enforcement, crime victim interests, prosecutors, and public defenders are vital members, ensuring comprehensive input on justice issues.
Additionally, the council features representatives from businesses, employers, housing providers, and faith-based organizations. It values the insights of at least two individuals with firsthand reentry experience after incarceration and two other community leaders. To further enrich its discussions, the council includes at least one member with a background in tribal flings.
McFeat leads the council’s efforts and agendas in collaboration with the Washington Statewide Reentry Council.
For more information about the council, visit the WSRC website and view its 2023–2026 Strategic Plan and 2023–2026 Logic Model.