A collaborative effort between state parole and county probation resulted in a resource fair for supervised individuals.
The Division of Adult Parole Operations (DAPO) is dedicated to aiding supervised individuals in their successful reintegration into society. To support this mission, they collaborated with the San Diego County Probation Department to organize a Feb. 20 community resource fair in Vista.
Cory Alvarez, the Chief Deputy Administrator of the Community Reentry Unit at DAPO, emphasized the significance of collaborative efforts in enhancing their programs.
“Collaborating with our external stakeholders is crucial for the success of events like these. It enables us to connect individuals under our supervision with available community services,” he explained.
Alvarez noted how the newly established Community Reentry Unit within DAPO played a vital role in this initiative, partnering with the Tri City District and San Diego County Probation to ensure the event’s success.
Watch the video (story continues below):
Over 90 providers gathered to offer help
The community resource fair took place in the parking lot of the Vista Court in northern San Diego, attracting hundreds of attendees. The event provided a platform for various organizations to offer services and for individuals to access valuable resources aimed at supporting their reintegration efforts.
“We have over 90 providers that are here today on the spot. We have free phones, free clothes, free food, everything is free,” said Charlene Ortiz, Deputy Probation Officer. “Also, we have substance abuse treatment on the spot (and employment opportunities.”
DAPO plays a crucial role in not only assisting individuals but also in strengthening community relationships. Through their events, they foster mutual trust, dismantle barriers, and challenge stereotypes, all aimed at ensuring safety and protection for everyone involved.
Sabrina Williams, Assistant Deputy Director of Field Operations at DAPO, emphasized the significance of these events.
“These types of collaborative events are positive for our supervised persons,” she said.
Attendee Lancey Mansou reflected on the impact of such initiatives.
“Without events like this, a lot of people would be lost,” Mansou said.
Story and video by Pedro Calderón Michel, Deputy Press Secretary
Office of Public and Employee Communications
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