Entering our 151st year, I’m guided by the responsibility that comes with our rich history. Community Partners in Action has helped shape reentry in Connecticut since 1875, and today we remain focused on building forward in impactful ways that matter for the people and communities we serve.
For more than a century and a half, CPA has adapted to meet Connecticut’s needs. From early probation reform to today’s reentry welcome centers, youth residential treatment programs, alternatives to incarceration, and our Prison Arts Program, we have evolved with purpose.
This winter, while the temperatures and precipitation tested our patience and infrastructure, we did not sit idly by. Our team met the needs of our participants while also submitting new proposals for Juvenile Residential Enrichment Programs that offer structured, developmentally appropriate services for justice-involved youth. These proposals reflect our belief that accountability must be paired with opportunity. Young people deserve environments that promote education, skill development, and therapeutic growth. If re-awarded, these programs will strengthen the continuum of care for youth we serve in Bridgeport and Hartford.
We are also investing in our internal strength.
- We have formed a strategic planning committee and are reviewing candidates to create and facilitate a new strategic plan that will guide CPA toward 2030 and beyond. This effort will sharpen our priorities while adhering to our inclusive values, deepen our data-driven decision making, and ensure long-term sustainability.
- CPA recently welcomed Mary Beth Peacock as our new Director of Human Resources. Mary Beth brings more than 20 years of experience in nonprofit and public-sector HR leadership. Her expertise in compliance, workforce systems, and equitable workplace practices will strengthen our infrastructure as we grow. Strong programs require strong systems.
- Our senior leadership team recently completed a crisis communications workshop led by Communications Director Adam H. Brill. The training focused on preparation, transparency, and disciplined response during challenging moments. Strong communication protects trust and trust sustains mission-oriented work.
Even as we plan for the long term, the work happening today continues to inspire. Our Prison Arts Annual Show drew powerful community engagement. Thanks to the state legislature earmarking additional revenue for Reentry Welcome Centers across the state, our own Greater Hartford and Greater Waterbury RWC’s combined continue serving more than 800 individuals each year. Most importantly, communities across Connecticut continue to partner with us in ways that restore dignity and opportunity.
Year 151 is about momentum. And we are grateful to move forward with you.
Beth Hines
Executive Director