Department or Program

Sociology

Abstract

The Maine Prisoner Reentry Network (MPRN) is a statewide organization with the mission of connecting and supporting Maine’s reentry community. In April 2020, MPRN began conducting remote meetings with incarcerated individuals prior to release, a practice that had not previously been permitted by the state Department of Corrections. This allowed for advance reentry planning and the opportunity to introduce returning citizens to reentry supports. MPRN strives to be equitable and sought a research partnership with me in hopes of expanding their reach and impact. My research is thus motivated by two questions: what are structural barriers that impact reentry experiences or curb access to reentry supports? How is MPRN able to meet the needs of returning citizens, and what role has conducting remote meetings prior to release played in the supports provided by MPRN? I conducted 28 interviews with returning citizens and reentry-related service providers across Maine. Findings suggest that given the challenges faced by returning citizens, these remote meetings should continue because they have positively impacted the process of reentry planning. Findings also document that most participants found the full range of supports provided by MPRN to be highly valuable, not just material supports but emotional supports as well. Findings further raise some concerns about equity of access to MPRN’s supports, suggesting that broader advertisement could enhance the organization’s operations. Other suggestions include increased support for people with serious mental health challenges, more transparency around whether or not resources can be guaranteed, and prioritizing racial representation among leadership.

Level of Access

Open Access

First Advisor

Kane, Emily

Date of Graduation

5-2022

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Number of Pages

94

Components of Thesis

1 pdf file

Community Engagement

1

Download

Open Access

Available to all.

Share

COinS