On January 23, 2025, Tully House, a Residential Community Reintegration Program (RCRP), hosted a highly successful Reentry Expo, paving the way for its residents to connect with essential resources for successful reintegration into the community. The event, held from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the facility’s gymnasium, was organized by Education and Health Centers of America, Inc. (EHCA) in collaboration with the New Jersey Department of Corrections (NJDOC), Division of Programs and Reintegration Services, Office of Community Engagement and Reintegration Initiatives, New Jersey Locally, Empowered, Accountable, and Determined (NJLEAD) initiative.
The Reentry Expo was spearheaded by Kellyann Bishop-Siland, EHCA’s Emergency Rapid Rehousing Assistance Program Reentry Support Specialist, whose meticulous planning and dedication ensured the event’s success. Representatives from six NJLEAD partner organizations were present, offering vital reentry services to residents. From housing assistance to substance use disorder peer navigation services, these organizations provided Tully House residents with essential tools to navigate their upcoming transition back to the community.
The Reentry Expo was made even more impactful by the involvement and participation of Tully House staff, many of whom volunteered their time to facilitate the event. Their presence underscored the program’s commitment to enhancing the lives of its residents and fostering a supportive environment. Richard McCourt, EHCA’s Chief Executive Officer, and Shannon Bilder, EHCA’s Quality Assurance Director, also attended the Reentry Expo to show unwavering support for the initiative and its impact on the residents.
Tully House residents expressed gratitude for the opportunity to meet with NJLEAD partners, one-on-one and face-to-face, to learn about the various programs available in the community to assist them post-release. The sense of optimism and determination among the residents who were in attendance of the event was uplifting and contagious. Each resident exited the Reentry Expo with a smile on their face.
The Reentry Expo at Tully House highlights the importance of community-focused initiatives in reducing recidivism and promoting successful reintegration. As NJDOC, EHCA, and other NJLEAD community partners continue to prioritize innovative approaches to reentry, events like the Reentry Expo set a standard for how collaborative efforts can transform lives. This event was a testament to the power of collaboration. When organizations and dedicated individuals come together with a shared mission, we can create meaningful opportunities for those reentering society. Stay tuned for additional upcoming Reentry Expo events!
