A citizens circle is a tool used to assist those released from incarceration to make a successful reentry into the community. Offenders and their families develop relationships with members of the community and together develop a plan to help the offender become accepted as a productive citizen and member of the community.
Offenders' involvement with a citizen circle is voluntary. Typically, to be accepted into a citizen circle, the offender must complete an application process, accept responsibility for past criminal behavior and acknowledge the harm they have caused others, accept recommendations, participate in community services, and set goals focused on law abiding and productive community behavior. The citizens circle may provide support to locate housing, employment, and other needs.
