CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (KCRG) - New data from the state’s Department of Corrections shows fewer Iowans are returning to prison.

Governor Kim Reynolds’ Office, as well as the Director of the DOC, credited the revamping of agencies in 2023 as one reason for the recent decrease. One nonprofit said it believes fewer former criminals are returning because of interventions like theirs.

“Some of the biggest obstacles to overcome are because you don’t have stuff of your own,” said Charles Morgan.

Morgan is now a volunteer at the RISE Program in Cedar Rapids. It’s part of the nonprofit ‘Fresh Start Ministries’ in Cedar Rapids to help those leaving prison find housing and jobs. A struggle Morgan knows all too well.

“When I say this place, from the beginning, this place gave me everything I needed,”

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