Rebuilding Lives: How SVdP Madison’s Work Release Partnerships Support Successful Reentry
By Brooke Trick – Senior Director of Retail Operations – North Central Region
In 2024, nearly 1.8 million people were incarcerated in state or federal prisons or local jails across the United States. With one of the highest incarceration rates in the world, the country also faces a troublingly high rate of recidivism—individuals who reoffend after release. A major contributing factor? Nearly 60% of those reentering society remain unemployed one year after release.
Recognizing this barrier, in 2018, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Madison started a work-release partnership with Oakhill Correctional Institution to offer incarcerated individuals job opportunities that would provide valuable work experience and financial support upon reentry. Following DOC work release requirements, individuals unload trucks and work in the hardline processing departments at the SVdP Centralized Processing Center.
During the shutdown, SVdP Madison partnered with Nehemiah, a local faith-based organization that supports formerly incarcerated men through housing and employment. Together, we created alternative job opportunities for Nehemiah’s reentry program participants, ensuring continued access to meaningful work and support through a difficult time.
Now, the collaboration between SVdP Madison, Oakhill, and Nehemiah is stronger than ever. The three organizations are working together to ensure that individuals currently in the work release program not only gain employment while incarcerated but also receive housing and community support upon release. This comprehensive approach helps break the cycle of recidivism and supports long-term success.
John Cobb, Associate Director of Retail Operations at SVdP Madison, initiated these collaborations. He candidly shared his initial hesitation:
“I had many of the same thoughts and stigmas that others do when you talk about incarceration,” Cobb said. “But after working with the Oakhill staff, my perspective changed. I was humbled. These individuals have served their time. They deserve a chance at a new life and shouldn’t be held back by the burden of their record.”
Sergeant Craig Bruesewitz, Work Release Coordinator at Oakhill, also emphasized the power of this opportunity:
“They’ve put aside real temptations to get to this level and now have a chance to make some money. Taking advantage of opportunities during incarceration is key to a successful release. When these guys succeed, it benefits the whole community.”
Cobb agrees that success requires dedication from all sides.
“This isn’t a program where you can set it and forget it,” he said. “We follow DOC rules, hold participants accountable, pay a competitive wage, and treat them the same as all our employees. When they leave, they’re prepared for today’s workplace.”
Since the program’s start, 104 formerly incarcerated men have found employment through SVdP Madison. Several have remained in the area, continuing to work with SVdP or securing new jobs and housing opportunities with SVdP support.
One such employee, King*, is a testament to the program’s impact. He credits Oakhill’s work-release program and SVdP’s support for his successful reintegration:
“I want to be a beacon to others who’ve been in similar situations—to let them know you can make it happen, and your past doesn’t have to shape your future,” King said. “Being given that opportunity was a game changer. It helped me establish myself. It gave me a chance to start over.”
Implementing reentry and work-release programs in our retail operations wasn’t something SVdP Madison had considered before 2018. But the results have been deeply rewarding. These experiences have increased awareness among our management and staff about the importance of programs and legislation that prioritize second chances and uphold the dignity of all individuals.
Housing, education, and employment are essential to reducing recidivism. A recent report by the Council of Criminal Justice found that securing employment after incarceration can reduce the chance of reoffending by 61%. Addressing these needs not only helps returning citizens reintegrate successfully, but it also contributes to safer, healthier communities.
When asked what he would say to others considering similar programs — or to individuals in prison offered the opportunity — King’s advice was simple but powerful:
“If someone reaches out to give you a hand up, take it. And give it your all. The more programs like these, the more chances there are for real change.”
