When California’s 58 counties began to tackle the challenges imposed by AB 109, the public-safety realignment of 2011, Glenn quickly became the “little county that could.” Through its Community Re-Entry Work (CREW) Program, Glenn is reducing recidivism, turning ex-offenders into contributing members of society – and saving the county money in the process.

In Glenn County, individuals now have a choice between receiving general assistance for three months or enrolling in CREW. The latter option is a 12-month program the provides ex-offenders the opportunity to receive assistance in a variety of areas, from housing and employment assistance to life skills and education. As Community Services Manager Lucy Hernandez is quick to explain, “It’s not a hand out; it’s a hand-up program.”