News

Community Information and Resource Fair in Meridian to Support Returning Citizens and Address Critical Challenges for At-Risk Individuals 

December 5, 2024
Even flyer
Even flyer

Boise, ID — Dec. 5 — A vital community event aimed at making Idaho's communities safer and supporting returning citizens will take place in Meridian next week. The Community Information and Resource Fair will provide an opportunity for returning citizens, their families, and other individuals facing challenges to learn about critical resources available for successful reintegration into Idaho communities. The event will also foster connections between community organizations, government agencies, and service providers working together to reduce recidivism and promote positive outcomes for individuals in need.

The fair will be open to the public and serve as a networking forum for organizations offering re-entry, recovery, and support services to newly released individuals and those at risk. It will include a wide range of resources aimed at addressing challenges such as addiction, mental health issues, housing instability, transportation, and employment.

Key objectives of the fair include:

  • Providing a networking platform for community organizations, government agencies, and nonprofits to share information about services available to returning citizens and others in need of support.
  • Offering case managers, parole officers, mentors, and community members a chance to discover and understand local resources that can assist in the successful transition of individuals back into society.
  • Identifying returning citizen-friendly resources to enhance existing community resource manuals.
  • Educating the public about the need for sustainable partnerships between various sectors to promote public safety and strengthen Idaho communities.

 Participants at the fair will include:

  • Secular and faith-based organizations that provide recovery, transition, and re-entry programs.
  • City, county, and state government agencies, including law enforcement, that offer assistance to returning citizens.
  • Non-profit organizations providing essentials such as food, clothing, bicycles, and housing.
  • Community mental health and medical service providers to help address the psychological and health-related needs of individuals in transition.
  • Resources dedicated to supporting veterans and their unique needs during reintegration.

The event is designed not only to help those who have been incarcerated but also to provide resources for individuals who may need additional resources or are struggling with challenges like addiction or mental illness. These issues can create barriers to employment and stable housing, and the fair will help connect individuals with programs that can make a significant difference in their lives.

The Community Information and Resource Fair will be held on Dec. 11, 2024, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at IDOC Training and Development Center located at 1090 E. Watertower St., Meridian. Everyone is invited to attend and learn more about how they can support the reintegration of returning citizens, reduce recidivism, and help create safer, more resilient communities in Idaho. 

For more information contact:
Barbie Getchel: barbie@idahoca.org                 Jeff Kirkman: jkirkman@idoc.idaho.gov