Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) in collaboration with the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) will hold a “Summit of Hope” in Peoria on April 10. The event aims to support individuals transitioning from incarceration back into society. This initiative aligns with Second Chance Month, observed annually in April.

The Summit will take place at the Peoria Civic Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and is by invitation only. It will feature many service providers offering vital resources such as health screenings, job opportunities, housing assistance, educational programs, and legal aid. The Peoria Police Department and the Peoria County Sheriff’s Office are also sponsoring the event alongside IDPH and IDOC.

"Second Chance Month is about recognizing the dignity of individuals who have paid their debt to society and helping them rebuild their lives," said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. The director emphasized the importance of providing returning citizens with access to resources that are often taken for granted.

IDOC Director Latoya Hughes noted the collective effort required for successful reentry, stating, "The ‘Summit of Hope’ is a powerful example of what we can achieve when agencies, community partners, and service providers work together." Hughes highlighted how connecting returning citizens with essential support can strengthen families, communities, and public safety across Illinois.

The summit will include a range of service providers, employers, community organizations, and government agencies all focused on addressing reentry barriers. Attendees will have the chance to obtain identification documents, enroll in healthcare programs, and access support for mental health and substance abuse recovery.

The state of Illinois continues to focus on reducing recidivism and promoting successful reentry through access to education, employment, and healthcare. Events like the “Summit of Hope” are part of broader efforts to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for returning citizens.

For further details about the Summit of Hope or to participate as a service provider, individuals can reach out to Michael Gaines via email at Michael.Gaines@Illinois.gov.