Experts teach about systemic challenges

Members of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul — Madison gathered on April 22 to learn from a panel of experts about the challenges faced by people who are incarcerated and those who are re-entering the community after incarceration. Consisting of conference member volunteers, staff and panelists, the group discussed how they might help people individually within their parish conferences or whether the Society of St. Vincent de Paul — Madison might consider developing a program of support.

Panel experts and discussion topics included:

• Retired Dane County Sheriff Dave Mahoney talked about the difference between jail and prison and the correlation between a mental health diagnosis and/or addiction and incarceration.
• Peter Moreno, Odyssey Beyond Bars Program Director, shared about the value and need for education for those who are incarcerated to promote successful re-entry.
• Leann Moberly, Correctional Field Supervisor, talked about the role of probation and parole to support re-entry and associated challenges.
• Captain Jason Mentzel and Sergeant Craig Bruesewitz from Oakhill Correctional Institution talked about the need for productive work experiences for incarcerated people and those re-entering the community to support their success.
• Cecilia Klingele, UW Law School Associate Professor and system reform advocate, talked about the disparities in the criminal justice system due to race, ethnicity and poverty. She also discussed the need for reform and advocacy for recognizing the humanity of those affected by the criminal justice system.
• Craig Sussex, advocate for reform and formerly incarcerated, talked about his experience of incarceration and what it takes to successfully re-enter the community.

After hearing from the panelists, participants engaged in small-group discussions.

After hearing from the panelists, participants engaged in small-group discussions about what they had learned, how they might help people, and barriers to becoming involved. Society of St. Vincent de Paul – Madison Associate Executive Director, Amy Overby, facilitated the training and gathered reflections from participants.

“Our conference member volunteers want to better understand the challenges faced by our neighbors leaving incarceration so that we can better walk alongside them. This discussion will guide further steps in this area to address the Vincentian question that shapes all our work “what must be done?” Amy Overby shared.

In tandem with efforts of the Diocese of Madison and other local agencies, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul – Madison will continue exploring challenges faced by people who are incarcerated and those re-entering the community.