A partnership-driven approach to exoneree support programs and capacity building

Abstract

While re-entry challenges of formerly incarcerated populations are well documented, there is limited understanding of the unique social support needs of individuals who have been wrongfully convicted and later exonerated. Unlike those released on parole, people who are exonerated often experience re-entry without institutional support, making their transition particularly complex and isolating. Addressing these gaps requires tailored, community-informed solutions. This paper presents the development of adapted social support tools specifically designed for exonerees through a community–academic partnership. Working with Exonerated Nation, a community-based organization led by and serving exonerees, we co-designed modifications to existing validated scales to better capture post-release social support experiences. The community-driven adaptation process was essential in creating a tool that could meaningfully assess social support as part of a comprehensive program needs assessment. The assessment was conducted during a
2-day convening of exonerees in California. Findings revealed the importance of fostering strong support networks, with diverse networks being particularly impactful. Families provide significant support and may benefit from greater inclusion in intergenerational healing spaces. These insights informed new programs, including peer support, re-entry mentors, and healing retreats that incorporated families and loved ones. This collaboration demonstrates the potential of community–academic partnerships to foster innovation in re-entry support by integrating diverse knowledge, mutual learning, and shared goals. It established the foundation for expanded program capacity, new funding opportunities, and future research initiatives. This paper further demonstrates how such partnerships can enhance service delivery and address the complex and often overlooked support needs of exonerees and their extended communities.