Central Florida Reentry Simulation

The USAO-MDFL collaborated with the Central Florida Reentry Network to plan and deliver a reentry simulation exercise at the Valencia College School of Public Safety in Orlando, Florida. More than 50 stakeholders, including an array of 20 volunteers and community partners, and agency representatives from Orange, Osceola, Seminole and Brevard Counties were immersed in the intense process, experiences, and challenges often faced by formerly incarcerated individuals returning to their communities. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Sara Sweeney welcomed attendees, while emphasizing the importance of working collaboratively to reduce barriers for those returning home from jail or prison. USAO-MDFL Reentry and Outreach Specialist Khalilah Escalera presented an overview of the cumulative exercise process before providing participants with details on how to navigate their way through the various timed-simulated life stations,  representing one month in the life of a previously incarcerated person returning home. The event was capped off by a moving testimonial from Marquis McKenzie (Florida Rights Restoration Coalition) highlighting the steps in his personal journey from incarceration to successful restoration and reintegration into society.  

Special thanks to our Central Florida Reentry Network Partners: Federal Correctional Complex Coleman, Orange County Corrections, Osceola County Corrections, Seminole County Corrections, Valencia College, Bridges International, and Rescue Me Ministries