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Optimizing Probation: One-Stop Shop to Reduce Recidivism
SESSION INFO
Tuesday, March 3, 2026
11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Session Type: Workshop
This interactive workshop invites justice and community partners to explore how integrated probation services can strengthen collaboration, promote rehabilitation, and improve public safety. It delves into the benefits of transforming Local Probation into a “one-stop shop” where probationers can access educational, employment, health-related, and identification resources under one coordinated system. This model not only streamlines service delivery but also humanizes the probation experience, removing barriers and expediting a client’s ability to access essential services needed to contribute to society. Workshop participants examine real-world examples of the importance of enhancing service delivery for clients and discuss strategies that improve probation officers’ capacity to serve as change agents rather than solely monitors of compliance. It not only enhances staff wellness and aligns with the National Institute of Corrections’ 8 principles of effective interventions, but also increases positive outcomes for probationers. Amidst current budget cuts, agencies also benefit from sharing space.
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SESSION PRESENTERS
Melissa Fanning
Training Coordinator, Hampton-Newport News Criminal Justice Agency
Melissa Fanning is an author, daughter, and dedicated trainer with over 25 years of service to the City of Hampton through the Hampton-Newport News Criminal Justice Agency. A proud graduate of Virginia Polytechnic Institute, she earned her B.S. in Public Administration and later pursued a Master’s degree in Criminal Justice from Saint Leo University to deepen her professional expertise. Currently serving as a Training Coordinator, Melissa continues a family legacy of instruction—following in her father’s footsteps as a Navy instructor—while drawing from her own humble beginnings as a probation officer. For several years, she has partnered with the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) as a facilitator, delivering CORE training in areas such as motivational interviewing, local probation risk assessments, time and case management, ethics, courtroom testimony, and case planning, among others. Within her agency, Melissa designs and delivers engaging, interactive lessons that foster growth and connection among staff. Once focused primarily on in-person training, she has since expanded her comfort zone to embrace the virtual learning space—blending professionalism with authenticity in every setting. Outside of work, Melissa finds writing children’s books, the rhythm of good music, and the enduring love of family and friends.
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