The READY Center serves as a consolidated hub or "one-stop shop" where returning citizens can access a wide range of services from Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) and District government agencies.
At the READY Center, we are deeply committed to engaging with individuals under DOC's care prior to their release and supporting those who have already returned to the community.
Our primary objective is to ensure a smooth and successful reintegration into society. To achieve this, we strive to establish meaningful connections and forge strong partnerships with organizations that serve as anchors in our community to help reduce recidivism.
**The READY Center has moved! The Center is now located 3640 MLK Jr. Avenue, SE. The center is open Monday to Friday from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
How It Works
- The READY Center engages DOC residents prior to their release from DOC custody to share information about available services.
- Soon-to-be released participants complete interest forms and a screening is conducted to determine their needs.
- The READY Center connects returning citizens released within 12 months from the DC DOC and the Federal Bureau of Prisons to District of Columbia Government agencies and CBOs for available resources and services.
District of Columbia Voting Rights
See the READY Center's Brochure
See the Requirements for READY Center Services
Agency Partners
Community Based Organizations (CBOs)
Participants can receive resource referrals for clothing, food, educational and work readiness and family reunification programs.
Department of Human Services (DHS)
Participants may apply for Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), employment and educational programs and family support services.
Department of Employment Services (DOES)
Participants can receive information on DOES work readiness programs such as Project Empowerment and Career Connections. Participants will be referred to appropriate programs.
Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
Participants may apply for identification cards, renewing or replacing a driver’s license and arrange payment plans to resolve any outstanding parking or traffic tickets.
Department of Behavioral Health (DBH)
Provides linkage and referrals for participants, including emergency psychiatric care and residential services.
The Mayor’s Office on Returning Citizen Affairs (MORCA)
Provides case management and referrals for resources such as birth certificates, social security cards, ticket adjustments and various training programs.
Office of Victim Service and Justice Grants (OVSJG)
The mission of the Office of Victim Services and Justice Grants (OVSJG) is to develop, fund, and coordinate programs that improve public safety; enhance the administration of justice; and create systems of care for crime victims, youth, and their families in the District.
The DC Reentry Action Network (RAN) is the District’s leading voice on reentry issues, and the only coalition exclusively for reentry service providers and their clients
The D.C. Re-entry Navigator publication is designed to empower and equip people affected by the D.C. criminal justice system with necessary information to successfully navigate reentry and reintegration. It is intended for use by people who are currently incarcerated or recently released, people living in the community with a D.C. criminal record, or people who support those with a D.C. criminal record, such as loved ones, service providers, and community members.
ABOUT LinkU
- LinkU is the free online resource and referral guide for DC, Maryland, and Virginia, available for consumers and community-based organizations (CBOs). Start your search by providing your zip code and finding resources for housing, food, health and more.
- LinkU Public Site: https://linkudmv.org/ (intended for consumers to search on their own)
Are you a Community Based Organization? As an added benefit, CBOs can become "LinkU staff members", which grants the agency access to additional features.
LinkU Staff features include:
- Organizational contact information and service offerings
- Referral and outcome tracking tools
- The online Needs Assessment Tool
- Appointment scheduling
- Agency reporting and evaluation
Staff Site: https://staff.linkudmv.org/login (intended for CBOs and case managers working on behalf of consumers)