"Recidivism" is the relapse into criminal activity and is generally measured by a former inmate's return to prison for a new offense. Rates of recidivism reflect the degree to which released inmates have been rehabilitated and the role correctional programs play in reintegrating former inmates into society. The three components for programs in prison and for aftercare programs in the community that were most often cited as critical to reducing recidivism included substance abuse treatment, education, and employment services. Substance abuse is a widespread problem among inmates with relapse after release a frequent cause of recidivism and a barrier to obtaining stable employment. This report focuses on the role of drug courts and mandatory treatment, since both are associated with a 31-percent reduction in recidivism. Educational programs help released inmates to attain the skills needed to find and retain employment. Programs of employment service address the need of released inmates to find work. They typically include job preparedness, career-development skills, and job placement. This report also examines programs that involve multiple components and that are used in varying degrees in many jurisdictions. Report recommendations pertain to accountability, rehabilitative services for inmates, and the needs of released inmates. Recommendations regarding accountability are to evaluate programs and replicate those that are successful and cost-effective and to increase the accountability of prison and parole personnel for rehabilitation and recidivism. Appended list of sample community-based prisoner reentry programs