PITTSBORO, NC—Chatham Community Library, in partnership with Chatham County’s Diversion and Advocacy Programs, will host three events to raise awareness of the importance of Second Chance Month. Observed each April, Second Chance Month highlights the challenges faced by thousands of individuals returning to their communities after completing prison sentences and post-release supervision. These individuals often encounter barriers to employment, housing, and support systems.

Reentry programs play a critical role in helping people rebuild their lives and successfully reintegrate into their communities.

By connecting individuals with resources from government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and local businesses, these programs create pathways to stability and opportunity.

WHAT: Reentry Simulation and Panel Discussion

WHEN: Monday, April 13, 2026
9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

WHERE: Holmes Family Meeting Room
Chatham Community Library
197 NC Hwy 87
Pittsboro, NC 27312

Reentry simulations demonstrate the struggles and challenges faced by individuals who are transitioning from incarceration back into society. The goal of the simulations is for participants to gain an understanding of obstacles faced by men and women attempting to acquire resources from various agencies upon their release from incarceration. Following the simulation, a panel discussion will take place from 1:00–2:00 p.m. and will feature Chatham County Assistant District Attorney Marci Trageser, Public Defender Melissa French, Attorney Lewis Fadely, District Court Judge Sherri Murrell, and members of the recovery community.

This program is free and open to the public. Registration is required and is capped at 75 participants. Visit https://tinyurl.com/CCL-Reentry to sign up. For more information, contact Kimberly Jones, Diversion Specialist and Reentry Coordinator, at Kimberly.Jones@chathamcountync.gov or 919-545-1990.

WHAT: