Goldsboro, N.C. – As the number of individuals reentering communities after incarceration continues to grow, the Wayne County Reentry Council is stepping up to help returning citizens navigate one of the most difficult transitions of their lives. Through a comprehensive network of community partners, the council is providing a second chance — and a fresh start — to justice-involved individuals across the region.
At the heart of this effort is Renita Allen Dawson, Vice President of Workforce Continuing Education and Community Engagement at Wayne Community College. She leads the Reentry Council and has become a key advocate for justice reform and workforce reintegration.
“The Reentry Council is a network of private agencies, businesses, nonprofits, and faith-based organizations working together to serve individuals who are incarcerated or formerly incarcerated,” said Allen Dawson. “Our goal is not only to support them as they return to their communities, but also to reduce recidivism — which means helping them avoid returning to prison.”
A Holistic Approach to Support
Regardless of an individual’s background or charges, the Council offers help. Services range from basic needs — such as clothing, food, transportation, and emergency housing — to mental health counseling, substance abuse treatment, educational opportunities, and job placement.
“We support people in earning a high school diploma, getting job training, or pursuing a trade,” said Allen Dawson. “Every person’s journey is different, and our role is to meet them where they are.”
The Council collaborates with the Wayne County Detention Center’s Substance Misuse Program, a partnership that actually helped relaunch the reentry initiative in the county. Together, they provide a crucial bridge for individuals leaving incarceration and stepping into uncertain futures.
Addressing Barriers, Building Solutions
One of the most urgent challenges facing returning citizens is housing.
“Housing is the number one need we see,” said Allen Dawson. “Many people have no place to go after release, and there are fewer emergency shelters now than before the pandemic. We’re working to build relationships with landlords, realtors, and property owners who can help.”
Transportation is another major barrier. Many individuals live in rural parts of the county — places like Mount Olive, Fremont, and Princeton — and struggle to reach service providers in Goldsboro.
“That’s why one of our long-term goals is to have a community-based office in downtown Goldsboro,” she added. “Not everyone is comfortable coming to the college campus after incarceration. Being centrally located would increase access and reduce stigma.”
Partnering for Second Chances
The Reentry Council regularly engages local employers and housing providers to advocate for second chances.
“We recently met with representatives from the Wayne County Realtors Association to explore how landlords can support reentry,” Allen Dawson said. “We’re also working with United Way and hope to strengthen partnerships with organizations like the Salvation Army.”
While formal “sponsors” like those in AA programs aren’t currently part of the program, the Council is exploring peer support models where individuals with lived experience mentor new participants.
“We have a few participants who’ve been through the program and now help others. We want to grow that into something more structured,” she said.
Open to All — With No Limits on Redemption
Unlike some programs, there is no cap on the number of times someone can receive help from the Council.
“If someone relapses or ends up incarcerated again, we’re still here,” Allen Dawson emphasized. “We don’t turn people away. Our mission is to support — not to judge.”
A Call to Action for the Community
Raising awareness remains one of the Council’s biggest challenges.
“Many people simply don’t know we exist,” Allen Dawson said. “But everyone deserves support, and everyone deserves a village. No one should have to go through this alone.”
Individuals can self-refer or be referred by probation officers, caseworkers, or family members. A simple intake form is available on Wayne Community College’s website by searching “Reentry.”
Looking Forward
As of now, North Carolina has 33 reentry councils, up from just 17 a few years ago — a growth encouraged by Governor Roy Cooper. The state’s Department of Adult Correction provides guidance for communities looking to establish their own reentry programs.
“We were blessed to be identified as an emerging reentry council,” said Allen Dawson. “It’s a reflection of the need in our community and the strength of our partnerships.”
Ultimately, the work of the Wayne County Reentry Council is about hope, opportunity, and equity — ensuring that justice-involved individuals aren’t defined by their past, but empowered to build a future.
