Purpose:  The purpose of this letter is to announce the National Conference on Offender Reentry taking place September 19-22, 2004 at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel, Cleveland, Ohio.

Background:  The U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs along with the Departments of, Labor, Education, Health and Human Services, Housing and Urban Development, Veterans Affairs, and the Social Security Administration is pleased to sponsor the National Conference on Offender Reentry.  This conference presents an incomparable roster of speakers and facilitators; all experts in their field.  Through plenary sessions, workshops and interactive small group discussions, the 2 ½ day conference will deliver current and practical information that will give attendees the essential tools to ensure innovative programming and sound management policies that will have a positive impact on the lives of ex-offenders.

The Conference sessions will address topics of interest to those representing law enforcement, employment services, housing, education, substance abuse prevention and treatment, healthcare, community and faith based organizations, and others.

Action:  To register or get more information about the conference, please visit the Serious and Violent Offender Reentry Initiative Web site at www.ojp.usdoj.gov/reentry/calendar.html.  Please feel free to share this information widely.

Inquires:  If you have any questions regarding the conference, please contact Rochelle Hagler at (617) 788-0147.

Holly C. OBrien

Regional Director

Office of Discretionary Programs & FLC