The Lackawanna County Reentry Task Force hosted a Reentry Simulation at the University of Scranton run by the DOC Reentry Team on April 25.
More than 100 people participated from various reentry partners, including the Department of Human Services, United Neighborhood Centers Northeastern PA, University of Scranton, Scranton Area Community Foundation and Clear Vision Health and Wellness.
Among the attendees were Jo-Ellen and Joseph Iyouu, who are local residents with a son and brother currently incarcerated and preparing for release. The couple heard about the event through a friend, and both thought it would be a good opportunity to learn about what their loved ones will experience and how they can help them.
During the simulation, participants are given an identity and must complete the first four weeks of their reentry. Weeks are broken down into 15 minute segments, and during this time they must stay in compliance with their parole. This may include getting identification, finding house, securing a job, passing a drug test, and much more. They’re given a limited amount of money and transportation tokens, and they must effectively budget their time and resources to avoid being sent back to prison for a parole violation.
Following the event, Parole Manager Penny Sines opened the room to discussion so participants could share about their own experience and what they’ve learned from it.
After the simulation — in which both Jo-Ellen and Joseph Iyouu fared well and avoided returning to prison — they said it was very enlightening and eye-opening.
“The key is when they get out, you don’t sit on things,” Joseph said. “You have to jump on it right then and there.”
He plans to encourage his son and brother to be proactive upon their reentry to be successful.
His wife noted the importance of family support upon release. She was also surprised how quickly things can turn around for a reentrant.
“This makes you realize what has to be done and exactly when it has to be done,” Jo-Ellen said.
Both said it was a wonderful experience and they encourage other families of incarcerated individuals to do it if they can.
They were also highly appreciative of the DOC team for putting on the event.
“They were incredible,” Jo-Ellen said. “Making this mandatory [in Basic Training] is wonderful. [DOC employees] should know what it’s like and what has to get done.”