Second Chance Month

By virtue of the authority vested by the Constitution of Virginia in the Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia, there is hereby officially recognized:

Second Chance Month

WHEREAS, criminal justice agencies and reentry service providers remain committed to ensuring long-term public safety, reducing statewide recidivism rates, and decreasing violent crime victimization safety in the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, criminal justice agencies and reentry service providers understand that most incarcerated individuals will be released back into the community; and

WHEREAS, criminal justice agencies and reentry service providers use a multi-prong approach to prioritizing individual service plans, to include validated assessments and participant input, which results in fiscal responsibility and maximization of resources; and

WHEREAS, criminal justice agencies and reentry service providers utilize evidence-based practices when addressing substance use disorder, mental health, and criminal thinking; and

WHEREAS, criminal justice agencies and reentry service providers recognize strong reentry programs that promote education, vocation, professional certifications, and workforce preparation to increase opportunities for meaningful employment which advances economic development in the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, reentry programs produce positive outcomes for returning residents by working to remove barriers to lawful participation in a free society and enhance long-term public safety; and

WHEREAS, criminal justice agencies and reentry service providers strengthen communities through collaboration and partnerships with state agencies, community stakeholders, multi faith-based organizations to promote successful reentry; and

WHEREAS, criminal justice agencies and reentry service providers prioritize professional development to ensure that services are aligned with best practices;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Glenn Youngkin, do hereby recognize April 2023, as SECOND CHANCE MONTH in our COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of our citizens.

Governor of Virginia

Proclamations