[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 101 (Tuesday, June 23, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E950]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


              IN RECOGNITION OF THE SUMMIT OF HOPE PROGRAM

                                  _____
                                 

                          HON. ROBERT J. DOLD

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 23, 2015

  Mr. DOLD. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Summit of Hope, which 
has become one of the most successful programs at reducing recidivism 
in the nation. Too many former inmates leave prison ill-prepared to 
find work and resume their lives, and the rate at which prisoners 
return to incarceration is far too high. The economic and human costs 
associated with high recidivism rates are unacceptable, and we must 
work for change.
  The Summit of Hope is a collaborative effort between the Illinois 
Department of Corrections, the Illinois Department of Public Health and 
local organizations throughout the state. In 2014, over 13,000 parolees 
and probationers received resources and assistance which helps many of 
them along the path to successful re-entry into society. Overseen by 
Senior Community Outreach Administrator Marcus King, the Summit of Hope 
is an example of how we can work together to address our most pressing 
challenges.
  Mr. Speaker, I will be joining Summit of Hope and community leaders 
at an event in North Chicago, Illinois. I consider it an honor to be a 
part of their initiative.

                          ____________________