The Illinois Department of Corrections will hold an expo today in Rock Falls for ex-offenders and parolees.
Department spokesman Tom Shaer says "The Summit of Hope" is designed to reduce the rate of recidivism by helping people update their driver's licenses, find counseling services, and take part in health screenings.
"This gives them a good opportunity in one stop to put together the pieces of a productive life because a safe and productive parolee (ex-offender) is a safe impact on society." -Tom Shaer, Illinois Dept. of Corrections
The state holds scheduled eight such expos around Illinois this year. Ex-offenders are invited based on where they live.
"We have cut through a lot of the red tape and that's the entire goal of The Summit of Hope, that's to bring the services to the ex-offenders so they can cherry pick what they need. They can fill out applications, they can get help filling out applications because it can be a daunting task. We also say 'Look, you have to take ownership of your life.'"
Shaer says between 400-900 participants attend the event at each location.
