International Webinar: Holistic and Inclusive Approaches to Reduce Recidivism and Reoffending Resources

Holistic and Inclusive Approaches to Reduce Recidivism and Reoffending

Reducing recidivism and reoffending requires more than isolated programs or short-term interventions. It demands a holistic, inclusive, and digital approach that recognizes the full complexity of reentry. In our most recent webinar, Geographic Solutions' international webinar tackled the issues surrounding these topics and more.

Throughout the presentation, it was clear that one thread unified all speakers: Inclusion through meaningful economic participation is the most powerful lever to reduce recidivism. When justice-impacted individuals are given real pathways to contribute economically -- whether through work, entrepreneurship, skills development -- recidivism drops, communities stabilize, and economies benefit.

Whether it's Jeff Korzenik's economic framing, Daisy Mills' entrepreneurship work, Bruce Roch's employer-led inclusion strategy, or Suzie Changus' in-custody training programs, all speakers emphasized that purpose and dignity are foundational to successful reentry, and not optional nice-to-haves.

Watch the full recording to hear more from this insightful presentation!

How can entrepreneurship serve those who face the steepest barriers to traditional hiring?

Daisy Mills explained that many justice-impacted individuals possess natural entrepreneurial skills, such as logistics and supply-and-demand management, from their past. For those blacklisted from traditional 9-to-5 roles due to specific offense types, self-employment offers a way to bypass hiring bias and turn their passions into professional, legal, and ethical businesses.

Why is a holistic approach necessary rather than just focusing on job placement?

Miguel Peromingo and the panel noted that recidivism is often tied to layers of vulnerability, such as mental health issues, housing instability, or a difficult family situation. Successful reentry requires an ecosystem of support, including employers, correctional facilities, and community nonprofits, that addresses the person’s entire life situation, not just their resume.

What specific traits make justice-impacted individuals high-value employees?

Jeff Korzenik pointed out that once an individual has decided to turn their life around, that determination manifests as extreme loyalty. Because they are often overlooked by other companies, they have a higher "staying power" and lower turnover rates, making them a more profitable and reliable choice for businesses facing labor shortages.