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The National Institute of Corrections is currently assessing its website and materials in accordance with recent Executive Orders and related guidance. During this review, some of NIC’s webpages and publications may be temporarily unavailable. Please revisit this web page for updates.

Community Services

Community corrections is an important aspect of the United States corrections system. It encompasses a range of programs and services designed to support individuals as they transition from incarceration back into their communities. Community corrections programs include probation, parole, halfway houses, community service, and electronic monitoring.

At NIC, we are committed to helping community corrections agencies and organizations promote successful reentry and build stronger, safer communities. Our resources and technical assistance are designed to help agencies and organizations achieve their goals and make a positive impact in the lives of individuals under community supervision, their families, and their communities.

How can Technical Assistance help my community corrections organization?

NIC offers technical assistance to community corrections agencies and programs through a variety of resources and services. Some examples include:

  1. On-site training and assistance: NIC can provide on-site training and technical assistance to community corrections agencies and programs. This can include customized training sessions for staff, program evaluation assistance, and leadership development programs.
  2. Web-based training and resources: NIC provides a range of web-based training and resources on topics such as offender reentry, evidence-based practices, and program evaluation. These resources are designed to be easily accessible to community corrections agencies and programs.
  3. Collaborative initiatives: NIC collaborates with community corrections agencies and organizations on a variety of initiatives aimed at improving outcomes for individuals under community supervision. These initiatives can involve partnerships with other organizations, research and evaluation projects, and development of new programs and practices.

Overall, NIC's technical assistance is designed to help community corrections agencies and programs implement evidence-based practices and improve outcomes for individuals under community supervision. By providing customized, targeted assistance, NIC helps agencies and programs build the capacity to support successful reentry and promote public safety.

What is an example of community corrections Technical Assistance?

In 2019, NIC provided technical assistance to the Philadelphia Department of Prisons' (PDP) Community Corrections Center (CCC). The technical assistance focused on improving the center's operations and management, with an emphasis on evidence-based practices, staff training, and inmate programming. The technical assistance included on-site consultation, training sessions, and a report outlining recommendations for improving operations and programming. The recommendations included developing a staff training program on evidence-based practices, implementing a case management system, and enhancing inmate programming to include evidence-based programs and services.

Apply for NIC Technical Assistance

Highlighted Publications
Related Topics
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) reduces recidivism in both juveniles and adults. The therapy assumes that most people can become conscious of their own thoughts and behaviors and then make positive changes to them. This page provides CBT resources for correctional facilities.
Correctional Health Care
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The need for effective and efficient correctional health care services has risen with increasing incarceration rates, including mental health, substance abuse, suicide prevention, and elderly care. This page has resources on correctional health care best practices.
Evidence-based Practices (EBP)
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Evidence-based practice (EBP) is the objective use of current research and data to guide policy and practice decisions, improving consumer outcomes. EBP emphasizes effective approaches supported by empirical research rather than anecdotal evidence.
Agency Evaluation Tool for Women on Supervision (AETWS)
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The Agency Evaluation Tool for Women on Supervision (AETWS) is a process designed to guide assessment of policies and programs for women in correctional facilities. It includes two sections, and the assessment process requires collaboration among corrections professionals.
Resources on Victim Offender Dialogue

Victim Offender Dialogue (VOD), also known as Restorative Justice Dialogue or Victim Offender Mediation, is a process that brings together victims of a crime and the individuals who have harmed them. It provides an opportunity for both parties to engage in open and facilitated communication with the goal of addressing

Wellness for Corrections and Supervision Professionals
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This page highlights the need for maintaining safety and security while providing opportunities for staff to not become overwhelmed by both institutional and community settings. "Wellness" emphasizes the importance of taking personal well-being seriously and provides a list of topics and resources to help professionals in the corrections field find balance and stay motivated to perform at their best.
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