Community Advocates Public Policy Institute

Community Advocates provides individuals and families with advocacy and services to meet their basic needs so they may live in dignity. Their Public Policy Institute works toward preventing and reducing poverty while improving the quality of life for individuals and families in Milwaukee and throughout Wisconsin. Milwaukee Reentry Council, facilitated by the Public Policy Institute is a subcommittee of the Milwaukee Community Justice Council that started the Smart Reentry Program. Its goal is to support previously incarcerated people during their release from incarceration and the year after they return to the community. Peer guides from the Alma Center work with the men at high risk of reoffending during their final 12 months of incarceration to remove barriers to success before their release. Approximately one to three months prior to release, each participant receives an individualized Reentry, Restorations & Employment Plan, which can address their reentry goals, day-to-day functioning, trauma-informed needs, family relationships, physical health, education goals, substance use treatment, and employment needs and barriers. Peer guides will also reach out to the men’s family members and social networks to assess support, risk, and practical needs, primarily housing. For more information, please contact the Community Advocates Public Policy Institute.