DECATUR — Community leaders, state officials, and dozens of local organizations came together in Decatur this week for the “Summit of Hope,” a large-scale resource fair aimed at helping formerly incarcerated individuals reenter society.
The event, held at Decatur Civic Center on Tuesday, brought in parolees and recently released inmates from across Central Illinois to connect them with housing, employment, healthcare, mental health services, legal support, and family resources.
What Is the Summit of Hope?
The “Summit of Hope” is a collaborative initiative organized by the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) and the Illinois Department of Public Health, with the mission of reducing recidivism by providing access to supportive services during the crucial reentry period.
“These summits are about rebuilding lives and reducing the likelihood of returning to prison,” said Rob Jeffreys, director of the Illinois Department of Corrections, during Tuesday’s event. “We want these men and women to feel supported and empowered.”
Since its launch in 2011, the Summit of Hope has traveled to various Illinois cities, serving tens of thousands of individuals through in-person, one-stop-shop events tailored for formerly incarcerated people.
Over 50 Agencies Offering Help
In Decatur, more than 50 vendors and government agencies set up tables to offer:
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Job training and employment opportunities
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Addiction recovery resources
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Driver’s license and ID services
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Housing and shelter information
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Veterans assistance
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Healthcare screenings and insurance signups
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Mentorship and community support groups
Among the participating groups were Dove, Inc., Workforce Investment Solutions, Illinois Secretary of State Mobile Unit, and the Macon County Mental Health Board.
Event organizers said hundreds attended throughout the day, and many signed up for follow-up services on the spot.
Reducing Recidivism Through Community Support
Reentry after incarceration is one of the most challenging transitions individuals face, especially without strong support systems. A 2022 IDOC report found that nearly 43% of formerly incarcerated individuals return to prison within three years.
Programs like the Summit of Hope aim to reduce this number by promoting long-term stability and access to essential services.
“Getting out is just the first step,” said volunteer coordinator Michelle Garrett. “It’s what happens next that really determines if someone will thrive or fall back into the system.”
Parolees Share Their Stories
Former inmate Terry Andrews, who served five years for burglary and was released earlier this year, said the event was “life-changing.”
“I walked in here feeling lost, but now I’ve got a job lead, an appointment for housing assistance, and even signed up for counseling,” he said. “For the first time in years, I feel like I’ve got a shot.”
Others echoed his sentiment, calling the event a “second chance fair” and thanking volunteers for treating them with dignity and care.
Have you or someone you know benefited from a Summit of Hope event in Illinois? Share your experience with us at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com — your story could inspire others.
