Hartford and Waterbury, CT - Community Partners in Action (CPA) has been awarded the contract to operate the Alternative In the Community (AIC) program in Waterbury by the state’s Judicial Branch, Court Support Services Division (CSSD). CPA is a nonprofit agency that provides re-entry support services and resources for people affected by the criminal justice system.
The Waterbury AIC will offer a supportive environment for men and women ages 17 and above who are referred to community supervision by the courts or probation department. Clients will be able to attend self-help groups and informational workshops, perform community service and work with CPA staff employing evidence-based practices to achieve the goals of effecting positive personal change and reducing the risk of recidivism. Clients also will have opportunities to access job development and placement assistance, and complete court-ordered community service hours.
“Our AIC programs provide opportunities to develop skills that will help clients transition back into the community,” said Hector Ortiz, the Waterbury AIC Program Manager. “Through community service, coaching and support, clients gain confidence, increase skills and prepare for the challenges they will face in life beyond the AIC.”
CPA has a history of successfully operating AIC programs. The agency has run the Hartford AIC, the state’s first such program, since its beginnings in 1986, and opened its transitional housing component in 1989. CPA currently also operates the AIC in Manchester. Effectively managed AIC programs will play a key role in helping achieve the three Criminal Justice priorities set by Gov. Malloy, which are to reduce crime, reduce spending and restore confidence in the Criminal Justice system.
“AIC programs are a critical resource in helping to reduce the state’s population of repeat offenders,” said Maureen Price-Boreland, CPA’s Executive Director. “We are pleased to have been chosen by CSSD as the program provider, and look forward to working with partners in the Waterbury community.”
