What Life Is Like For A Returned Prisoner: Montco Hosts 'Reentry Simulation'

CONSHOHOCKEN, PA — A special simulation event was held in Montgomery County recently that aimed to education dozens of county officials and partner organizations about the difficulties faced by released prisoners upon reentering society.

The event, held at the county's Public Safety Training Campus in Conshohocken, was aimed at improving empathy and understanding around a critical and often overlooked social issue.

“The successful reentry of returning citizens is crucial not only for their individual success and well-being, but also for the safety and stability of our communities," U.S. Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero said in a statement. "So, reentry must be everyone’s concern."

The exercise gave all participants prison identities and related responsibilities. Depending on their past, the "convicts" had to go through probation, substance abuse treatment, and drug tests while searching for housing and a job. They had limited funds at their disposal to do it.

Officials said that participants came away with a greater sense of awareness of some of the basic barriers faced by well intentioned individuals returning to society and struggling to work through a challenging system.

“It is not just about the individual being ready. It is about the community being ready to accept them,” one participant said.

Officials directed participants and the public wishing to assist to the Montgomery County Reentry Initiative, which is need of volunteers.