In July, the CSG Justice Center released final policy recommendations to reduce reliance on incarceration in New Hampshire as part of the state’s Justice Reinvestment Initiative. This effort is part of the state’s commitment to reducing the incarceration of people with substance use disorder and mental health challenges by decreasing recidivism and associated costs.

As we honor #SuicidePreventionWeek, the CSG Justice Center reaffirms our commitment to expanding access to vital mental health services. A key component of this effort is the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which was highlighted during the first-ever 988 Day on September 8. In his 2023 op-ed, Ernie Stevens explained how the lifeline shifted some responsibilities from police to trained mental health crisis responders. We encourage law enforcement officers to use our pocket card to connect people to the right support through 988, along with other resources available on our 988 webpage.

In just its first two years, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline received 10 million calls, texts, and chats. 988 crisis counselors assist people seeking help for themselves or for loved ones who are experiencing suicidal thoughts, mental health concerns, or substance use-related crises. Nearly 98 percent of people who have reached 988 have been able to get support without a connection to emergency services. 

Mark your calendars! On September 16, Washington will officially launch its participation in the Reentry 2030 initiative, joining the nationwide effort to reduce recidivism and improve reentry outcomes. Governor Jay Inslee will be signing an executive order during the event, marking a significant step forward in creating a safer, more supportive environment for people returning to their communities after incarceration. Don’t miss the live stream of this important milestone! Tune in 11:00 a.m. PT (2:00 p.m. ET) to watch the launch via TVW and learn more about Washington’s commitment to transformative reentry efforts.

Join this webinar for an overview of data and research about mothers who experience incarceration and its effects on children and family members. Presenters will share strategies to meet the needs of children, parents, and family members and to overcome barriers to family engagement in reentry processes. Attendees will also learn about gender-responsive evidence-based programming and family therapy modalities that address women’s substance use and mental health needs during reentry and support family healing and well-being.

September 17, 2024

2:00–3:30 p.m. ET

This virtual seminar will explore how continuous learning and collaboration can enhance data analysis in corrections by showcasing the Washington, DC, Department of Corrections’ (DC DOC) analysts' efforts to better understand and use data for overtime analysis. Novice and advanced practitioners alike will be inspired to create and implement data-informed approaches in their own organizations. 

September 18, 2024 

2:00–3:00 p.m. ET

Join us for an upcoming webinar on the initial findings from the Youth Protective Factors Study, a multistate, multiyear research collaboration with the UMass Chan Medical School and UC Berkeley’s Risk-Resilience Lab. This new study explores youth reoffending, risk factors, protective factors, and effective services. As concerns about youth crime rise, it’s important to know the facts and prioritize resources effectively. Learn how to tailor strategies for high-risk youth and assess protective factors. This webinar is a great opportunity for juvenile justice professionals, policymakers, and community leaders to gain valuable insights and take action. 



October 2, 2024 

2:00–3:00 p.m. ET

Interested in learning more about the work of the CSG Justice Center? Check out our other newsletters and subscribe to gain access to resources and up-to-date information.