Tuesday, June 11, 2002

Human Services Advisory Council Sponsors June 27 Conference

Helping ex-offenders attain self-sufficiency will be the focus of a conference sponsored by the Atlantic County Human Services Advisory Council on Thursday, June 27 from 10 AM to 3 PM at the Martin Luther King, Jr. School auditorium, 1700 Marmora Avenue, Atlantic City.

"Empowering the Ex-Offender: Steps Towards Liberation & Integration" will highlight successful models in New Jersey that emphasize individuals' strengths and potential and inform other communities how to replicate similar programs.

The morning session will include a discussion of the unique needs of women ex-offenders as heads of households and mothers. Since the mid 1980s, the number of women incarcerated has quadrupled. In addition, the session will include a presentation by the state president of the NAACP. The afternoon session will address specific issues that may contribute to incarceration, such as substance abuse, mental illness and poor family structure. A workshop on entrepreneurial opportunities will also be provided.

Funding for the conference was made possible through the New Jersey Department of Human Services, Atlantic County Government and the Atlantic City Board of Education.

There is no fee to attend, but reservations are required. Please call John McLernon at (609) 645-7700, ext. 4518 to RSVP.

County News