Former convicts were exposed to an afternoon of inspiration and education during the One-Stop Reentry Fair, held at the Baltimore City War Memorial.
The fair was hosted by the United States Attorney's Office and featured over 60 non-profits, service providers and state and local government organizations who aim to help citizens who are leaving prison and reentering society.
"We think that being able to provide these resources to individuals who have been released from incarceration will break the cycle of crime," said Elizabeth Morse, the Prevention Specialist of the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Maryland.
Returning citizens gained access to services that specialize in job training, college preparation, transitional housing and substance abuse. A service provider called New Transitions Community Development Corporation (NTCDC) supports former convicts and at-risk youth.
"We're not just looking at the individual; we're looking at generations," said Gregory Adams, the Executive Director of NTCDC.
Throughout the day, returning citizens took full advantage of the resources provided to them and look forward to setting their lives back on the right track.
"A lot of [returning citizens] are ready to be tax-paying citizens," said Kim Dailey, a Baltimore resident. "They just need a chance. They just need one shot."
