Collaborate with the Department of Corrections, the Bay County Sheriff's Office and the local Police Departments to develop effective communication methods.
Establish a safe and secure environment for employees, volunteers and participants at the Center.
Continue to collaborate with local law enforcement officials as they provide services to the local residents, schools, churches and businesses that are located near the Resource Center.
Collaborate with all local law enforcement agencies, the Department of Corrections and service providers to ensure that community support systems are in place for persons exiting prison.
Invite providers to collaborate on-site. Provide comprehensive case management to concentrate resources on the period immediately following release.
Case Managers will develop the required community supervision and treatment strategy.
Maintain continuity of care for persons being released from prison. Case Managers assure sustained engagement in treatment and services. Mental health needs are met.
Recognize and address the obstacles that ex-offenders face. Obstacles and gaps in services identified. Community Plan to lessen obstacles and improve transition into the community implemented.
Ensure ex-offenders' compliance with terms of release. Provide options with a system of accountability.
GOAL 3: Implement methods to divert people who become homeless from incarceration for minor offenses.
Collaborate with local law enforcement agencies to develop a diversion system. Identify diversion strategies and identify minor offenses to be covered by diversion. Agreement reached on the "who, what and how" of the system to be implemented.
Collaborate with local law enforcement agencies to implement a diversion system.
Hire staff to assist law enforcement with services, needs and planning processes.
Many fewer homeless individuals will be routinely incarcerated. Cost-savings and more appropriate services will be established.
GOAL 4: Advocate for better practices in law enforcement.
Identify and advocate for new policies and procedures to remove barriers to facilitate rapid re-entry into the community. Persons participate in Resource Center programs & placements without being burdened by legal issues.
Advocate for frequent and regularly scheduled warrant clearance days for minor offenses.
Advocate for increased community service in lieu of fines. Advocate for a graduated system of fines. Identify and advocate for new policies and procedures to remove barriers.
Advocate for a review of the amount and appropriateness of the current bond schedule.