NIRCO Recognized as Employer of the Year by the Waukegan Coalition to Reduce Recidivism

Northern Illinois Recovery Community Organization (NIRCO) is honored to receive the

Employer of the Year Award from the Waukegan Coalition to Reduce Recidivism for our

continued commitment to providing second-chance employment opportunities for justice-

impacted individuals. The award was presented at the Coalition’s Annual Luncheon, where

community partners gathered to celebrate local organizations that are creating pathways to

stability, empowerment, and recovery for those reentering society after incarceration.

This recognition holds deep meaning for NIRCO, as our mission has always been centered

around the belief that every person deserves the opportunity to rebuild their life. Employment

plays a vital role in successful reentry and long-term recovery, offering not just a paycheck—but

a renewed sense of purpose, dignity, and belonging. Through our workforce initiatives and peer

recovery programs, NIRCO actively works to reduce barriers to employment and foster hope

among individuals navigating the challenges of reentry.

“Our organization is rooted in the belief that everyone deserves an opportunity to rebuild their

life,” said Dr. Mary Roberson, Chief Executive Officer of NIRCO.

“We are proud to employ individuals who bring strength, resilience, and lived experience to

our mission. This award reaffirms our commitment to breaking cycles of incarceration and

supporting pathways to recovery, purpose, and self-sufficiency. We see the potential in every

person who walks through our doors.”

Creating Pathways to Employment and Recovery

NIRCO’s approach to reentry and workforce development is grounded in the peer-recovery

model—individuals with lived experience providing guidance and support to others who are

walking similar paths. Many of our staff members have personally experienced incarceration or

recovery, bringing authenticity and empathy to their roles as peer recovery specialists, outreach

coordinators, and program facilitators. By hiring individuals with lived experience, NIRCO

creates an environment of understanding, trust, and shared growth.

Our partnerships across Lake County—including with local treatment centers, community

organizations, and justice partners—strengthen the continuum of care for individuals returning

to the community. NIRCO’s Warm Handoff and Peer Support programs connect individuals

with essential recovery services, while our employment initiatives help them rebuild financial

stability and independence. Together, these efforts reduce recidivism and contribute to a safer,

healthier, and more equitable community.

A Community Effort to Reduce Recidivism

The Waukegan Coalition to Reduce Recidivism plays a vital role in uniting community

organizations, employers, and justice partners to promote effective reentry strategies. Their

annual luncheon brings together leaders and advocates who share the same goal—to help

justice-impacted individuals succeed. NIRCO is proud to stand among partners who recognize

that reducing recidivism requires compassion, opportunity, and collaboration.

This Employer of the Year Award reflects more than just NIRCO’s hiring practices—it represents

a shared commitment to inclusion and the belief that second chances strengthen entire

communities. Every person who finds employment and purpose through NIRCO’s programs

becomes a living example of what’s possible when compassion and opportunity meet.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Waukegan Coalition for this honor,” Dr. Roberson added.

“When we invest in people who have been justice-impacted, we are investing in the health and

future of our entire community. At NIRCO, we believe in restoration, we believe in recovery,

and we believe in the power of employment to transform lives.”

Looking Ahead

As we look toward the future, NIRCO remains committed to advancing recovery, equity, and

justice through employment and peer support. Our work is far from over—but every milestone

like this reminds us that change is happening. We extend our deepest gratitude to the Waukegan

Coalition to Reduce Recidivism for recognizing our efforts and to every team member, partner,

and peer who makes this mission possible.

Together, we are proving that when people are given a chance to work, heal, and grow, they

don’t just change their own lives—they change the world around them.