The evening will feature remarks from Jeff Walker, Program Director for R3 Recovery Revolution. Walker is a certified North Carolina Peer Support Specialist and Recovery Coach, and he was among the first in the state to pursue certification in Forensic Peer Support. He brings valuable lived experience into jails and prisons across North Carolina.
Having experienced long-term recovery and former incarceration, Walker now works with individuals in the Wilkes County Jail. He facilitates support groups and provides pre-trial release and reentry services through R3 Recovery Revolution. During the program, he will share his personal story and discuss the challenges faced by those returning to society after incarceration.
Participants will then engage in an interactive simulation that mimics the first month after release from jail. This exercise requires participants to navigate common barriers such as finding employment, housing, transportation, food, and other essential resources while confronting the stigma that often accompanies justice involvement.
Organizers aim to build empathy and encourage community conversations about ways businesses, organizations, and residents can better support successful reentry. Community leaders have highlighted stigma as one of the biggest barriers to recovery and reintegration. At a recent Community Opioid Prevention and Education (C.O.P.E.) meeting, participants discussed how stigma surrounding addiction, incarceration, and joblessness often prevents individuals from seeking help.
“Stigma is a major roadblock to connecting people who are struggling with the help they desperately need,” said Heather Murphy, Executive Director of the Wilkes Health Foundation.
Recent data shows that the Wilkes County Jail houses an average of about 235 inmates, with roughly half of those individuals awaiting trial rather than serving a sentence. This reflects the number of people navigating legal and personal challenges simultaneously.
The risks during reentry can be severe. Drug overdose is a leading cause of death for individuals recently released from incarceration. In the first two weeks after release, the risk of fatal overdose is 13 times higher than that of the general population.
The program also aligns with growing statewide attention to reentry services. In 2024, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper issued Executive Order 303, directing state agencies to expand education, rehabilitation, and reentry support for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals. The initiative aims to increase the number of employers willing to hire individuals with criminal records by 30 percent by 2030.
“Our state’s correctional facilities are a hidden source of talent,” Cooper said when announcing the order. “Every person deserves the opportunity to live a life of joy, success, and love. Even when we make mistakes, each one of us can be redeemed.”
This event complements the library’s efforts to address the opioid crisis and support vulnerable community members, which includes the installation of a Narcan vending machine that provides free overdose reversal medication.
“Libraries serve people at every stage of life, including those searching for jobs, education, internet access, or simply a safe and welcoming place,” said Suzanne Manners, county librarian. “Because libraries are trusted community spaces, we are in a unique position to help reduce stigma and connect people with the resources they need to rebuild their lives.”
Organizers emphasize that successful reentry requires support from the entire community. With understanding, opportunity, and access to resources, individuals returning from incarceration can rebuild stable and productive lives.
Community members interested in attending the Reentry Simulation are encouraged to contact the Wilkes County Public Library. This is a free event, but registration is required. Please register for the event using this link.