More than 300 participants joined the 22nd Annual Missouri Reentry Conference, where leaders from corrections, nonprofit organizations, workforce development programs, and community agencies shared strategies to strengthen reentry services and improve outcomes for returning citizens throughout Missouri.
The 2026 Missouri Reentry Conference brought together corrections professionals, reentry service providers, workforce development organizations, community leaders, advocates, and policymakers from across Missouri for three days of virtual learning, collaboration, and innovation focused on successful reentry and community reintegration. Centered on the theme, “Reentry Ready: Aligning Services for Stability and Success,” the Conference showcased effective reentry programs, workforce development and employment readiness initiatives, family-centered support services, and evidence-based practices that help individuals successfully transition from incarceration to community life.
Now in its 22nd year, the Missouri Reentry Conference has become one of the state’s premier professional development and networking events focused on reentry and reintegration. Over the past two decades, the Conference has benefited more than 8,000 participants and featured more than 600 subject matter expert speakers, creating a statewide platform for sharing best practices and strengthening partnerships that support returning citizens, their families, and their communities.
The Conference was hosted through a longstanding partnership among the Missouri Department of Corrections, Family and Community Trust (FACT), and ARCHS, organizations that have worked together to advance reentry solutions across Missouri for more than 20 years. Organizers also recognized the generous support of this year’s sponsors: Transfr Inc., in2Action, Fathers and Family Support Center, Mission Gate, and Career TEAM. Their continued investment reflects a shared commitment to reducing barriers, expanding opportunities, and improving outcomes for individuals returning from incarceration.
Reentry programs that address employment, housing, family stability, education, transportation, and behavioral health are critical components in reducing recidivism and supporting long-term success for returning citizens. The presentations throughout the Missouri Reentry Conference reinforced the importance of coordinated services and cross-sector partnerships in building stronger pathways to successful community reintegration.
Day One: Western Missouri Reentry Programs Focus on Employment and Economic Mobility
The Conference opened with presentations highlighting innovative Western Missouri programs that are helping justice-involved individuals gain workforce skills and achieve economic stability.
Missouri’s first correctional facility-based barber training program, the DOC Barber Academy at Algoa Correctional Center, demonstrated how industry-recognized credentials can prepare participants for employment before release. Instructor Brittney Johnson shared how the program combines technical training, professionalism, and entrepreneurship to create pathways toward self-sufficiency.
Attendees also heard from Connections to Success leaders Helen Hurley and Jeff Lee, who discussed the organization’s comprehensive approach to workforce development, employment readiness, life coaching, and family support. Their presentation emphasized the critical role employment plays in successful reentry, long-term economic mobility, and reduced recidivism.
Day Two: Central Missouri Partners Strengthen Families and Build Community Connections
The second day spotlighted Central Missouri organizations working to strengthen families, address trauma, and foster community engagement.
Charles Barnes of the Fathers and Families Support Center shared insights on identity, accountability, and family restoration, emphasizing the importance of rebuilding relationships and creating positive support systems for returning citizens.
Brian Williams of the Randolph County Caring Community Partnership presented an innovative community-based model that engages correctional staff, service providers, employers, and local partners in preparing individuals for successful reentry. Programs such as fatherhood initiatives and Community Health Worker certification opportunities demonstrate how communities can help create meaningful pathways to stability, self-sufficiency, and success.
Day Three: Eastern Missouri Organizations Showcase Evidence-Based Reentry Solutions
The Conference concluded with a spotlight on Eastern Missouri and the work of Concordance, a nationally recognized reentry organization serving the St. Louis region.
Meghan Brennan and Erica Marks highlighted Concordance’s holistic, trauma-informed reentry model, which addresses housing, employment, behavioral health, transportation, recovery, and family reunification. Their presentation demonstrated how coordinated support systems can improve outcomes for individuals transitioning from incarceration back into the community.
The final day also included recognition of two outstanding Missouri Reentry Champions. Dennis Shine of the Prison Education Project at Washington University in St. Louis received the 2026 Non-DOC Reentry Champion Award, while Nate Atkins, Deputy Warden at the Western Reception, Diagnostic and Correctional Center, received the DOC Reentry Champion Award for his leadership and innovation in advancing reentry efforts.
Missouri Partners Continue Building Stronger Reentry Pathways
Closing the Conference, Valarie Moseley, Acting Director of the Missouri Department of Corrections, reminded participants that successful reentry requires ongoing collaboration among corrections agencies, community organizations, employers, educational institutions, and service providers.
While the format may have been virtual, the Conference reinforced the strength of Missouri’s reentry network and the collective commitment to helping returning citizens build stable, productive, and successful lives. From workforce development and family reunification to housing support and evidence-based service delivery, presenters highlighted effective strategies that are making a difference in communities across the state. Les Johnson, ARCHS President and CEO echoed participants observations. “As Missouri agencies and community partners continue expanding reentry services and strengthening cross-sector partnerships, the 2026 Missouri Reentry Conference once again demonstrated the power of collaboration in creating safer communities, stronger families, and better outcomes for returning citizens throughout Missouri.”