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IMPACT Consortium Submits Recommendations After First Term

October 6, 2026

At the conclusion of the inaugural IMPACT Consortium, the seven participants, consisting of five members from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) and two advocacy members, provided recommendations to TDCJ leadership on two robust areas: reentry resources and communications. These areas of concern were selected after the group reviewed approximately 40 suggestions that were submitted previously by members of advocacy organizations.

Statewide Reentry and Parole Resource Modernization Initiative

After members evaluated current resources and processes, the group found that resource delivery across the state is inconsistent and difficult for formerly incarcerated individuals and agency staff to navigate. Some members of the consortium witnessed the release of those incarcerated, attended an orientation for those new to parole and met with subject matter experts both within TDCJ and outside of the agency. The advisory board used this information to develop suggestions to improve resources provided to those returning to their communities.

“During our observations, we were able to witness the cheerful moment of those reconnecting with their loved ones after years apart,” TDCJ Office of Family Services Manager Britteny Skains said. “This reconnection happens moments after they were just provided a wealth of information related to their reintegration. Our goal is to ensure these individuals can easily understand and access the immense number of resources available by the agency, our partners, and community organizations to help them successfully return to our Texas communities.”

The group provided eight recommendations for leadership to consider, including:

  • Maintaining a comprehensive, up-to-date resource guide available on the tablets and the TDCJ website.
  • Implementing consistent training and curriculum for all staff completing parole orientation.
  • Establishing new and leveraging existing volunteer networks, including those with lived experiences, to provide a broader range of resources to formerly incarcerated individuals across the state.
  • Strengthening processes and workflows to ensure timely and accurate processing of essential personal identification documents.

“Every person leaving prison is someone’s neighbor, parent, or child coming home, and they deserve a real foundation to build on,” said Justin Martinez, an advocate member of the IMPACT Consortium. “I appreciate the work we are doing with TDCJ to strengthen the reentry process and ensure that the information and resources provided to those being released are accurate, meaningful, and easy to access. While I’m encouraged by the collaboration here, it is important not to lose sight of the need to invest in our communities so deeply that they never have to leave in the first place.”

Communication, Transparency, and Stakeholder Engagement

A review of current communication practices and information-sharing processes found opportunities to improve clarity, consistency and reliability of communication with families and advocates. Specifically, stakeholders expressed uncertainty regarding appropriate points of contact for specific concerns, expected response times, and processes for escalation or follow-up. Consortium members provided recommendations to TDCJ executive leadership to strengthen communication through simplifying processes and establishing clear routes to obtain accurate information.

“Clear, consistent and reliable communication is critical to strengthening credibility and trust with our stakeholders,” TDCJ Chief of Staff Rachelle White said. “Any opportunity we have to improve engagement with families and advocates will result in stronger relationships built on transparency and better outcomes for those incarcerated.”

The group provided three recommendations for leadership to consider, including:

  • Implementing a standardized, agency-wide communication framework that clearly defines points of contact, expected response times and escalation pathways.
  • Strengthening information-sharing across units and administrative offices to ensure information provided is consistent and accurate.
  • Expanding stakeholder engagement opportunities and enhancing feedback channels.

Next Steps

Suggestions submitted by the IMPACT Consortium will be reviewed and considered by the agency’s executive leadership. IMPACT Consortium members will continue to be updated on their suggestions and plans for implementation.