008: Excellence in Reentry: Interview with Pat Mims, Janene Grigsby & Corrine Lee

ProBaytion in Alameda County

In this enlightening episode, we dive deep into the world of reentry within probation, featuring a team of dedicated professionals from Alameda County Probation and the Center of Reentry Excellence (CORE) program. Together, Corrine Lee, Janene Grigsby, and Pat Mims provide invaluable insights into the transformative services offered by CORE and its impact on our community.
Introduction:

· Fina Perez welcomes listeners to a candid exploration of the CORE program and the individuals behind its mission.

· The episode aims to shed light on the vital work of probation, emphasizing safety and holistic support for individuals transitioning back into society.
Biographies:

Pat Mims:

· Director of Reentry Services, Rubicon Programs.

· Pat's journey from incarceration to community leadership exemplifies the transformative power of redemption and second chances.

· He champions responsibility, healing, and vulnerability, leveraging his experiences to create opportunities for those impacted by the criminal justice system.

· Recognized with prestigious awards for his advocacy and commitment to restorative justice, Pat is dedicated to empowering others and fostering family bonds.
Janene Grigsby:

· Reentry Services Coordinator, Reentry Unit.

· Janene's multifaceted career spans law, non-profit leadership, and reentry services, driven by her unwavering principles of justice and integrity.

· As an attorney and advocate, she champions the rights of marginalized communities, embodying the ethos that injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.

· With a background in neurobiology and a passion for social change, Janene leads initiatives to transform systems and facilitate successful reintegration into communities.
Corrine Lee:

· Probation Re-Entry Services Coordinator – MH/SUD.

· Corrine brings extensive experience in mental health and substance use services to her role, specializing in integrated wellness and family reunification.

· Her dedication to supporting individuals in their journey toward rehabilitation is evident in her career trajectory, from school-based therapy to her current position within probation.

· Corrine's commitment to holistic care underscores the importance of addressing physical, mental, and emotional well-being in the reentry process.
Discussion Points:

1. The guests share personal anecdotes and professional insights, providing insight about the CORE program and the realities of probation work.

2. They reflect on the challenges and triumphs of their roles, highlighting the importance of compassion, empathy, and community support.

3. The conversation delves into strategies for enhancing community safety, emphasizing the need for holistic approaches that address root causes of crime and support individuals' journey toward self-actualization.
We thank Corrine, Janene, and Pat for their openness and dedication to making a difference in the lives of those impacted by the criminal justice system.
We hope you, our listeners, find this conversation an engaging and meaningful dialogue, recognizing humanity and potential for growth in every individual.