Partnerships are Proof-Positive for Change

Community Perspective

AliceAnne Frost, CEO
The PROGRAM, "It's About Change"

Collaboration that leverages local resources in novel ways. Concern for community safety and compassion for returning citizens who are committed to positive change. The partnership between The PROGRAM, “It’s About Change” and the York County Bar Association (YCBA) is at the nexus of results measured in productive second chances and an improved community for all. Creative problem-solving that considers possibilities. 

Today, The PROGRAM is the only service provider in York County solely dedicated to providing direct client services to returning citizens, which as made this past year both humbling and inspiring. Amid a widespread public health crisis and deep economic challenges, we navigated ways and means to maintain and expand reentrant services during a pandemic. Bolstered by lessons learned over the 20 years The PROGRAM has been a pillar of reentrant services in Harrisburg, our York footprint since 1979 was solidified by partnerships with community organizations, such as the YCBA.

The results can be measured by an astounding increase in the number of clients The PROGRAM has served in York County — a 271% increase from FY 2019 to 2022, for a total of 281 clients. Behind these impressive numbers are people – both the reentrants given a second chance and the partners who support their productively successful transitions, including The PROGRAM, the YCBA, and others.

The PROGRAM and its partners know that justice involvement is inextricably linked to financial instability, trauma, behavioral health (both substance use and mental health) and many other collateral consequences of incarceration. These consequences often include limited eligibility for employment, public assistance, and voting rights, as well as limited access to education and training, transportation, and decent housing. We also know the first days, weeks, and months of freedom for a returning citizen are critical to their transitional success.

A primary barrier to reentry is an individual’s inability to navigate a complex, incomplete, yet essential services landscape. The PROGRAM provides comprehensive case management that includes reentrant supports for housing, workforce development and placement, families, and mentorship. Alongside the YCBA and Mid Penn Legal, The PROGRAM also has been able to provide expungement and driver’s license services to York County returning residents with profound impacts.

Moreover, The PROGRAM has teamed with attorneys, government officials and agencies, and community organizations to launch the “Pardon Project,” designed to assist individuals with a criminal record who have served their sentence and demonstrated proof-positive change. As the “Pardon Hub” for York County, The PROGRAM offers guidance, coaching, and advocacy for those seeking a pardon from the governor. These collaborative partnerships yield win-win opportunities for both reentrants and the community.

We are thankful for and proud of our collective achievements, and are confident that with continued partnerships, including with the YCBA, we will advance productive opportunities and quality of life for all.