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Building Bridges: A Toolkit for Implementing Jail Reentry Pod Programming Designed by Inmates, for Inmates
SESSION INFO
Tuesday, August 26, 2025
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
Session Type: Workshop
This session introduces a comprehensive toolkit for agencies looking to implement a jail reentry pod program designed by inmates, for inmates. The toolkit provides practical guidance on establishing peer-led focus groups and integrating community coach mentors to support successful reintegration. It also highlights strategies for leveraging partnerships with external organizations to enhance program effectiveness. Participants will learn how to create a structured, supportive environment that empowers incarcerated individuals to take an active role in their own rehabilitation. By fostering peer support and connecting individuals to resources before release. The session will explore key components, implementation strategies, and lessons learned. Attendees will gain valuable insights and actionable steps to adapt and implement a peer-driven jail reentry pod in their own facilities.
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SESSION PRESENTERS
Dir. Teresa Fuller
Reentry Director, Pinal County Sheriffs Dept
Teresa Fuller currently serves as the Justice Services Administrator Manager, where she mentors the Adult Diversion program and oversees the implementation of reentry efforts across Pinal County. With 18 years of experience in various governmental roles—including Child Protective Services, Adult Probation, Juvenile Probation, and Victim Services—Mrs. Fuller has dedicated her career to advancing evidence-based alternatives in community supervision. She has played a pivotal role in launching innovative projects such as Teen Court, the Crossover Youth Project, and the adoption of EPICS training for supervisors and diversion officers. Her work has also extended to policy development aimed at increasing the use of evidence-based practices in supervision. In addition to her current responsibilities, Mrs. Fuller directs the 5-year Justice Reinvestment Initiative research project, funded by the Bureau of Justice Administration, titled Digital Transformation of Community Supervision. She holds a master’s degree in Family and Human Development from Texas Woman’s University.
Michael Robinson
Reentry Program Manager, Casa Grande Alliance
Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana, Michael Robinson is a passionate advocate for individuals in recovery and a dedicated leader in the nonprofit sector. Having served more than a decade incarcerated, Michael has transformed his life and has been clean from all substances since January 19, 2019. In 2020, Michael relocated to Arizona to work as a Senior Outreach Coordinator for Oxford House, where he played a pivotal role in expanding recovery housing opportunities and providing stable, supportive environments for individuals in recovery. His work with Oxford House solidified his commitment to helping others on their transformation journey. Today, Michael serves as a Forensic Peer Recovery Support Specialist, prevention education coordinator, Certified Trauma Support Specialist, and program manager at Casa Grande Alliance. In November 2022, he started the Pinal Community Reentry Project. In this role, he leverages his lived experience and professional expertise to empower returning citizens, guiding them toward rehabilitation, reintegration, and lasting success. Michael’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and hope. Through his leadership, he remains dedicated to creating opportunities for others to rebuild their lives and thrive.
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