West Cook News

In April 2025, the Cook County Board of Commissioners recognized April as Second Chance Month, a move highlighting the barriers faced by residents returning from incarceration. This resolution, introduced by Cook County Commissioner Michael Scott, seeks collaboration to enhance successful reentry into the community.

Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle commented, “Cook County is proud to join communities and municipalities across the country in recognizing Second Chance Month. People who have paid their debt to society deserve a meaningful second chance to thrive in their communities, yet they face significant barriers to success. By investing in reentry programs and services that help returning residents succeed, we are building a safer, stronger, more just Cook County for all.”

Commissioner Michael Scott noted, “This month, stakeholders across the county are working together to raise awareness about the collateral consequences associated with incarceration. The approximately 20,000 people who leave Illinois prisons each year often face legal and social barriers to attaining employment and fair housing. We are committed to supporting returning residents so they can overcome these challenges and successfully make the transition home.”

Among the initiatives are Cook County Reconnect and the Road Home Program, which support residents in their reentry. Cook County Reconnect, overseen by the Cook County Justice Advisory Council and funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, assists returning residents in securing housing and providing rental assistance. The program's pilot phase concluded in 2023, and it has since reopened to accept new participants.

Nikki Muñoz, Reentry Services Manager for the Justice Advisory Council, stated, “A safe, stable place to live is critical for successful reentry, yet it is one of the most common unmet needs for people coming out of incarceration. Cook County Reconnect addresses this need and helps returning residents overcome barriers including housing discrimination and affordability.”

Community organizations, such as the Proviso Leyden Council for Community Action and the North Lawndale Employment Network, offer additional support like employment assistance and healthcare services. Brenda Palms, President and CEO of the North Lawndale Employment Network, added, “Second Chance Month reminds us that returning residents possess incredible potential and play vital roles in their families and communities. Through connection to housing and employment opportunities and access to healthcare and legal services, we see returning residents thriving as entrepreneurs, creators and change-makers.”

The Road Home Program is managed by The Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership. It aims at eliminating employment barriers for those reentering the community. The program assists with job training and matches candidates with employers in sectors such as transportation and manufacturing. George Wright, Partnership CEO, stated, “Removing barriers to employment is a key element of workforce development. During the last program year alone, nearly 100 participants enrolled in the Road Home program. More than half participated in On-the-Job training, allowing employers to gain confidence in hiring re-entrants and allowing those returning home to build a resume and work history.”

Since 2017, various organizations have been marking April as Second Chance Month to raise awareness and promote the successful reintegration of formerly incarcerated individuals.

For more information on Cook County’s reentry programs, people are directed to visit CookCountyIL.gov/JACReentry and ChiCookWorks.org/initiatives/roadhome.