Challenges of fitting into society after incarceration, re-entry simulation at St. Joe County Library

ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, Ind. - Community members are invited to participate in a re-entry simulation as a citizen navigating your way back into society after coming home from incarceration, at the St. Joe County Public Library, Friday, March 22.

Organizers say the event will help you learn how challenging it can be for people returning from incarceration, also known as a returning citizen.

The simulation will have you navigate the first four weeks of getting back into society while complying with all supervised release requirements.

Organizers list the specific tasks as the following:

• Assume the role of a newly returning citizen.
• Balance the challenges of life after re-entry while completing supervision tasks.
• Experience “real life” struggles and stigmas.
• Participate in short group discussions between simulated weeks.

Organizers say the simulation is designed for elected officials, judges, doctors, nurses, lawyers, clergy, people who work in social service fields, police officers, probation officers, parole officers, correctional officers, criminal justice employees, college students, and any community members who want to learn about the re-entry process from a new perspective.

Taking place in the St. Joseph County Public Library Ballroom at 304 South Main St. in South Bend, it's a free event and you can grab your tickets here. Space is limited.

Doors open at 9 a.m. with the simulation starting at 9:30 a.m. and going to 12:30 p.m.

Organizers state that participants over 10 minutes late for the simulator won't be allowed to participate in the event.

Once capacity is met, you may sign up for a waitlist.

You can view the official Facebook event page for any further updates.