UNDERSTANDING THE JOURNEY
Reentry, Reintegration, and Desistance.
These concepts are connected, but each describes a different part of the process of returning home and building a fulfilling life.
REENTRY
The immediate transition from incarceration back to family, work, services, and community life.
REINTEGRATION
The longer process of establishing stability, belonging, opportunity, and meaningful community participation.
DESISTANCE
The individual and social process through which a person moves away from offending and sustains positive change over time.
Effective policy and practice must address all three.
CONDITIONS FOR SUCCESS
Reintegration Requires More Than Individual Effort.
Lasting change is shaped by access to opportunity, supportive relationships, responsive services, and fair systems.
STABLE HOUSING
A safe and reliable foundation for rebuilding.
MEANINGFUL EMPLOYMENT
Income, purpose, skills, and economic mobility.
EDUCATION & TRAINING
Pathways to credentials, knowledge, and opportunity.
HEALTH & WELL-BEING
Accessible physical, behavioral, and substance-use care.
FAMILY & SOCIAL CONNECTION
Relationships that support belonging and resilience.
COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION
Opportunities to contribute, lead, and build social capital.
Stronger pathways produce stronger outcomes for individuals, families, and communities.
KEEP EXPLORING
Put Evidence Into Practice.
Explore research-informed resources, follow emerging findings, or collaborate with us to strengthen reentry and desistance efforts in your community.
Break the Cuffs is a research institute and does not currently provide emergency assistance or direct case-management services.