KEY REENTRY PROGRAM FUNCTIONS
Local collaboration efforts between DCS Community Coordinators and their local community .
Community Coordinators provide direct support to the local DCS sites . They work within their assigned circuit to develop and maintain relationships with service providers and resources . Community Coordinator also assists with hands-on case management of high needs cases . Referring individuals to housing , employment , mentoring resources when identified as a need .
Two major functions of community coordination include : Capacity building and direct linkage . Capacity building refers to increasing identified service providers that are willing to work with our target population . Coordinators often get involved directly with cases to ensure proper service connection . In addition to building capacity and providing direct linkage to local resources , Community Coordinators also lead local steering teams . Steering teams consist of providers representing a wide array of specialty areas . These teams meet regularly to discuss ways to overcome barriers and service gaps . Community Coordinators are essential to the success of reentry . They provide the front line work to establish local relationships , connect individuals to resources , and ensure resources are available in the community to support those in need .
PROVIDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR SUCCESSFUL LIVES TO THOSE WE SERVE AND TO BUILD STRONGER RELATIONSHIPS WITH THE COMMUNITIES WE LOVE .
Dianna Gonzalez , Macon Circuit Community Coordinator
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