Reentry Simulation: Navigating Community Reintegration

This Reentry Simulation is an immersive, experiential learning event designed to simulate the complex challenges individuals face when transitioning from incarceration back into the community. Participants will navigate a carefully constructed mock environment that replicates the multifaceted obstacles of reintegration, challenging participants to develop awareness, understanding, determine new ways of implementing support relevant to their prospective industry or community.

Simulation Structure

Participants will be placed in a comprehensive mockup environment that mirrors real-world conditions, experiencing:

• Employment Barriers: Navigating job searches, background checks, and workplace reintegration

• Financial Constraints: Managing limited resources, probation fees, and basic survival needs

• Housing Challenges: Maintaining or securing stable housing with a criminal record

• Social Support Dynamics: Rebuilding family relationships and community connections

• Legal Compliance: Meeting probation requirements and avoiding potential reincarceration

• Mental Health and Addiction Recovery: Accessing support services and maintaining personal well-being

Key Simulation Components

1. Daily Life Scenarios: Participants encounter realistic scenarios requiring immediate decision-making and resource management
2. Simulated Bureaucratic Interactions: Navigate mock interactions with potential employers, probation officers, social service providers, and housing officials
3. Resource Management Challenges: Limited financial resources and time-sensitive responsibilities create pressure-filled environments mirroring real-world constraints
4. Emotional and Psychological Stressors: Experience some of the psychological impact of stigma, limited opportunities, decisions, and systemic barriers.

Participants will gain:

• An increased awareness of reentry challenges

• Enhanced understanding of systemic barriers

• Empathy and understanding of post-incarceration challenges

• Awareness of systemic barriers and potential support mechanisms

Participants will begin:

• Identifying practical strategies for implementing support in their respective industry or community

Note: This simulation is designed to be a transformative learning experience that promotes understanding, empathy, and actionable insights into the reentry process. It is NOT the same as living the reentry experience and should not be considered as such even if similar lived experiences.

Host or Publisher WSU Tech