In 2017, at the request of the Department of Community Corrections and Rehabilitation (DOCCR), the University of Minnesota’s Urban Research and Outreach-Engagement Center convened an action research team comprised of a diverse group of community members to make recommendations about how DOCCR could improve its community engagement efforts. One key recommendation was the creation of a community advisory board. In September 2018, DOCCR released an RFP to solicit consultant/advisory services for the design, development and implementation of a community advisory board. Through this competitive selection process, Marnita’s Table was selected to provide these consultation and advisory services. As a consultant/advisor, Marnita’s Table will partner with DOCCR and community members to design, develop and implement a community advisory board made up of diverse community members. The community advisory board will be a mechanism through which community members have the opportunity to offer input and influence DOCCR’s policies, procedures, and services and will be part of larger committee structure that actively informs corrections practice for Hennepin County and the Fourth Judicial District.

DOCCR’s community advisory board and this agreement for its design and development will support the County’s disparity reduction efforts by providing a formal mechanism for diverse community input and support, enhancing the effectiveness of DOCCR initiatives and leading to more successful client outcomes.