South African delegation visits Edgecombe program

Odyssey House's Edgecombe Residential Treatment Program recently hosted an 11-member delegation from the South Africa Department of Correctional Services. Darrin Brown, director of Edgecombe, said the delegation, led by Correctional Services National Commissioner Tom Moyane, was particularly interested in the collaborative design of the program as well as our re-entry efforts related to community reengagement.

The visit was part of a seven day tour that included visits to a maximum security facility, a community corrections office, a juvenile center, a female facility, and a pre-release center. South Africa Minister of Correctional Services Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula previously visited Edgecombe and other DOCS facilities in April 2010, after which she decided to return with a group of regional commissioners that are central in conceptualizing and driving the implementation of departmental transformation programs aimed at better service delivery.

Above: The South African delegation with Edgecombe staff.

Above right: Commissioner Tom Moyane and Edgecombe Director Darrin Brown.

The Edgecombe Residential Treatment Program is a comprehensive substance abuse treatment program designed to reduce the risk of re-incarceration. It is a collaborative effort by Odyssey House, NYS Division of Parole, NYS Division of Criminal Justice Services, and NYS Department of Correctional Services. Click here for more information.