Community Work Release

Connecticut Renaissance’s Community Work Release Programs serve individuals referred by the Connecticut Department of Correction who are preparing to transition back into the community. These programs provide structured support to help participants overcome the barriers that often stand in the way of successful reentry.

Through a focus on fostering independence, accountability, and long-term stability, our team works closely with Reentry Centers, Project Longevity, the Workforce Development Board, and a network of local partners. Together, we assist clients in securing employment, accessing job training, and obtaining stable housing.

Every participant is screened for behavioral health needs, including substance use and mental health concerns. Based on these assessments, we connect individuals with trusted clinical providers to ensure they receive the personalized, comprehensive care they need to thrive.

ADMISSION PROCEDURES

Referrals are accepted only from the State of Connecticut Department of Correction.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

PREA

The Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) was enacted to prevent sexual assaults and harassment in residential facilities housing individuals under the control of various components of the judicial system. CT Renaissance has a zero tolerance policy toward all forms of sexual abuse and harassment in our facilities and ensures training, education, prevention, detection, response, investigation, and tracking of all reported acts of sexual abuse and sexual harassment. If you suspect that sexual abuse has occurred at a CTR program, you have several options for reporting. You may call Kathleen Seto, PREA Coordinator, at 203-336-5225 x2118, or you may call the Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-888-999-5545. Reports may also be made directly to the Police Department. Reports will be investigated as indicated in CTR’s PREA Policy and Procedure.

PREA Reports

Community Release Programs

The Community Release Programs are provided at three locations located in Waterbury and Bridgeport, serving  male clients referred by the Connecticut Department of Correction. Goals of the programs are to offer residents the opportunity to learn how to overcome barriers to reentry, establish vocational and educational skills, support systems and independent living skills

The program begins with an orientation phase which will assist residents with adjusting to the facility, staff members, other residents, structure of the program and to establish a personalized re entry plan that includes measurable criteria of accomplishments and a specific time table for achieving them. It is the philosophy of the program that discharge begins at admission. During this time, residents will meet with the Unit Job Developer for assessment and support in obtaining and retaining employment. The program is geared toward assisting clients in recognizing and addressing barriers to successful reintegration. Through one-on-one Case Management, residents are encouraged to address their mental health, medical, and substance abuse issues. Case Managers aid residents in accessing resources for vocational/educational opportunities, individual and group therapy, 12-step self-help programs, family reunification, and legal issues.

Length of Stay is approximately 90-120 days.

Once a resident is employed, the Case Manager will work with them to learn budgeting and financial literacy.  It is the goal of this phase to focus on discharge planning.  Completion of the program is based on the client’s participation level, employment, securing of appropriate residence, aftercare planning, and legal status.

Residents are under the supervision of a house Parole Officer. The Parole Officer works closely with the resident and staff to ensure self sufficiency and success in re entry.