Leaders talk strategies, 2030 plan at first North Carolina Joint Reentry Council meeting of 2026

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- The first North Carolina Joint Reentry Council meeting of the year brought together leaders to align on strategies for supporting people after incarceration.

The council, which meets bi-monthly, focuses on critical reentry needs, such as housing, employment, and health support.

During the Wednesday meeting, leaders reviewed progress made in 2025 and outlined goals for this year, including the launch of a new Reentry 2030 Dashboard. The state also joined the national Reentry 2030 initiative in 2024 through an executive order signed by former Governor Cooper.

"Equipping folks with the tools they need to succeed with their second chance is not only right for them but also great for their families and benefits all of us," Governor Stein said during the meeting. "Everyone benefits when every person meets their fullest potential and contributes to the fullest extent of their abilities to our communities."

He mentioned the tragic death of Raleigh teacher Zoe Welsh, who was allegedly killed by a man with a long criminal history.

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According to Stein, 90 percent of people incarcerated in North Carolina prisons will eventually be released, with approximately 18,000 people expected to be released this year alone.

"Too often, when people leave incarceration and return to their communities, they find door after door closed to them," he said. "They can't find housing, afford transportation, rely on health care, or access jobs that will hire them. Every time a door closes on someone, it becomes harder for them to stay on track."

Advocate Kerwin Pittman shared plans to transform the former jail in Wayne County into a workforce development campus. The facility will offer a program featuring vocational training and job placement opportunities, aiming to provide those previously incarcerated with skills for livable wages.

Pittman said this planned transformation is the first of its kind nationally and is looking forward to working with the state to make it a reality.