FY 2021 COSSAP - New Jersey State Parole Board

The New Jersey State Parole Board (NJSPB), partnering with Rutgers Health University Behavioral Health Care (RUBHC), seeks to provide peer-recovery based services to individuals under parole supervision with SUD. With COSSAP funding in the amount of $2,542,489.00, the NJSPB wishes to expand Rutgers’ current Intensive Recovery Treatment Support program and create a team of providers specifically dedicated to the needs of individuals under NJSPB supervision, entitled Intensive Recovery Support-Parole Program (IRTS-PP).

RUBHC developed the IRTS program model in 2018 to provide pre- and post-release services to reduce relapse and recidivism. Collaborating partners include the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services and the NJ Department of Corrections. The IRTS program was developed in response to local concerns, given the 42% increase in statewide drug overdose deaths from 2015-2016 (CDC, 2017) and the statewide average of more than eight drug-related deaths per day in the first half of 2018.

The IRTS program pairs peer health navigators with incarcerated individuals who have a history of SUD. While these services exist, no program of this magnitude is offered to the parolee population specifically. Through pre-release case plans developed in collaboration with Parole Counselors and Peer Health Navigators, individuals scheduled for release to parole supervision will return to the community well-equipped with wrap-around peer-support and rehabilitation services. Enrollment into IRTS-PP begins 6-months pre-release, when clients can meet with their Peer Health Navigator, and continues for a minimum of 12 months. IRTS-PP will be offered statewide, with dedicated regional Parole District Offices serving as implementation sites. IRTS-PP clients will begin to address SUD with the assistance and support of a team comprised of a Habilitation Coach, Peer Heath Navigator (PHN), and Parole Officer. This team will work closely to manage, monitor and evaluate client progress and success. 

If awarded funding, the following deliverables will be produced: 1) Implementation Plan; 2) Program Guide; 3) RUBHC contract; 4) PHN Training Curriculum; 5) Recovery and Wellness Inventory tool; 6) Case Conference Report; 7) Delivery Management Report; 8) IRTS-PP Client Discharge Plan; 9) Data Management Plan; and 10) Performance Measures.

Each day in District Offices across this state, the NJSPB is on a mission to improve the safety of the public and the quality of life in New Jersey. As our officers strive to reduce the likelihood of recidivism within local communities, the strength of the IRTS-PP partnerships will serve to promote ongoing efforts to reduce substance abuse and overall recidivism.