WHEREAS, thousands of individuals are involved in Virginia’s criminal justice system and are provided opportunities for rehabilitation, reflecting the Commonwealth’s commitment to structured second‑chance pathways that promote public safety; and

WHEREAS, the Virginia Department of Corrections maintains one of the lowest recidivism rates in the nation, with a success rate of 82.4 percent, demonstrating the Commonwealth’s continued investment in core correctional practices that support successful reentry and strengthen community safety; and

WHEREAS, Virginia’s criminal justice and reentry initiatives recognize that evidence‑based programs and services create critical pathways for successful reintegration, personal growth, and positive change for individuals returning to their communities; and

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth of Virginia invests in trained and qualified staff, expands employment pathways, and strengthens recovery‑oriented services for individuals with mental health and substance use needs—including peer recovery support staff—to promote stability and long‑term success; and

WHEREAS, agencies across Virginia partner with local governments, nonprofit organizations, faith‑based groups, community stakeholders, and families to provide coordinated support, mentorship, and reunification services that reinforce reintegration and uplift the essential role of families in sustaining successful reentry; and

WHEREAS, a commitment to reentry and second‑chance practices results in long‑lasting public safety, transformed lives, and stronger communities across the Commonwealth;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, do hereby recognize April 2026, as SECOND CHANCE MONTH in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.