Strengthening Reentry Through Housing: An Operational Blueprint for Urban League of Greater Philadelphia

The Urban League of Greater Philadelphia (ULGP) engaged the Capstone Team to develop an operational blueprint for its new transitional housing facility for 9 to 18 justice-involved men annually, each up to 12 months. ULGP sought an evidence-based model to guide facility operations and strengthen long-term reintegration outcomes. To address this need, the Capstone Team conducted an extensive literature review and interviewed 14 reentry and supportive-housing providers across major U.S. cities. It analyzed quantitative data on recidivism trends and effective program structures. This mixed-methods assessment identified best practices in housing access, resident autonomy, integrated wraparound services, funding diversification, and data transparency. The Capstone Team delivered an operational model and policy framework outlining recommendations across five core domains: prioritizing housing access, implementing an autonomy-focused program structure, integrating comprehensive wrap-around services, diversifying funding streams, and establishing a centralized data and evaluation system. These recommendations position ULGP to launch a trauma-informed, evidence-based transitional housing program that enhances resident stability, reduces recidivism, and expands reentry capacity within Philadelphia.