TDOC Teams Up With Community Partners for Offender Resource Fair

WARTBURG – The Morgan County Correctional Complex (MCCX) held its annual Resource Summit on Thursday, April 20. Over 200 offenders, all within one year of release, participated in the event. The offenders were able to network and collect information regarding a variety of post-incarceration resources, including education assistance, vocational training, job placement services and financial planning.  Nearly 30 organizations, including the Knoxville Leadership Foundation, King University, Amachi of Knoxville, Project Return, Regions Bank, the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development, and the Tennessee Partnership for Ongoing Parental Support,  took part in the event.

“So many of our offenders are uneasy about being released because they’re unsure of how to go about getting help in so many areas, including education and employment,” says Christy Strunk, Reentry Specialist at MCCX.  “Events like today’s Resource Summit really help instill some confidence in them because they learn where they can go and what they need to do to be successful.”

Reducing recidivism through evidence-based programs and continued support after an offender’s release from prison is a part of the Tennessee Department of Correction’s ongoing mission to ensure and enhance the safety of the public.