The Pennsylvania Prison Society has been awarded a contract by the Allegheny County Department of Human Services (DHS) to provide critical reentry programming as part of the County’s expanded and nationally recognized reentry initiative at the Allegheny County Jail (ACJ). Programming officially began last week, with the Prison Society now facilitating weekly group discussions for both men and women focused on relationship building and family reunification.
Connection is the Cornerstone of Successful Reentry
Research shows that sustained relationships are key to helping returning citizens succeed. The Prison Society’s programming will focus on building healthy family connections, strengthening communication skills, and helping participants heal relationships that may have been strained by incarceration.
“We’re honored to support Allegheny County’s enhanced approach to reentry,” said Kirstin Cornnell, Family and Community Support Director of the Pennsylvania Prison Society. “Our program model is built on the understanding that people need community to truly thrive. Relationships—whether with family, mentors, or peers—are the bridge between incarceration and opportunity.”
Expanded Mentoring with A Proven Model
This new contract aligns with a broader strategic expansion of family and community supports by the Prison Society in Western Pennsylvania. In the coming months, the organization will also launch mentoring programs at two state correctional institutions located in the western part of the state. These programs which are already operating in the Philadelphia region and have recently undergone an independent evaluation, focus on developing robust social support networks as a foundation for addressing the logistical and emotional challenges of reentry—such as securing housing, finding employment, and reuniting with family.
Participants in these programs receive one-on-one and group mentorship to foster emotional resilience, improve communication skills, heal strained relationships, and navigate family dynamics during and after incarceration.