The Guilford County Division of Public Health’s Drug and Injury Prevention and Violence Prevention Programs, together with the Guilford County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO) Re-Entry Initiative, will host a Re-Entry Simulation event on June 26 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Simkins Pavilion at Barber Park, 1500 Barber Park Drive, Greensboro.
Facilitated by the NC Department of Adult Corrections, this event provides participants with a firsthand understanding of the challenges individuals face when returning to their communities after incarceration. Through an immersive simulation, participants will explore barriers to re-entry, reduce stigma, build empathy and foster collaboration to create a more supportive environment for returning citizens.
“When individuals are equipped with the resources and support they need to thrive, entire communities benefit,” said Courtney McFadden, Guilford County Public Health Director. “This event encourages meaningful conversations about how we can work together to strengthen re-entry outcomes and promote community well-being.”
According to the UNC School of Government, 44% to 49% of incarcerated individuals will be re-arrested within two years of release and 36% will return to incarceration. Many challenges contribute to recidivism, including finding employment and housing post-incarceration. The UNC School of Government also cites untreated mental health and substance use disorders as contributing factors to recidivism.
Guilford County Sheriff Danny H. Rogers said, “My hope is that this simulation gives community members a better understanding of what individuals experience as they work to re-enter society. The more we understand those challenges, the better we can support successful re-entry.”
The Re-Entry Simulation is a no-cost event. Participants may register for the event. For more information, email gopec@guilfordcountync.gov.
About the Guilford County Division of Public Health’s Drug and Injury Prevention and Violence Prevention Programs
The Guilford County Division of Public Health’s Drug and Injury Prevention Program serves as a bridge between the community and treatment, recovery and health resources, providing education and training to support residents impacted by substance abuse disorders. The Violence Prevention Initiative partners develop and deliver community outreach and education efforts designed to increase awareness, foster collaboration and mobilize community action to prevent violence across Guilford County.
About the Guilford County Sheriff’s Office Re-Entry Initiative
The GCSO Re-Entry Initiative is a community organization that assists formerly incarcerated or currently incarcerated individuals with transitional planning. The organization acts as liaison between the client and services such as substance abuse treatment, mental health treatment and housing assistance. To receive services from the GCSO Re-Entry Initiative, you must be a resident of Guilford County and released from one of the Guilford County Detention Centers. For more information, visit the Guilford County Sheriff's Office.