This paper outlines the concept of reentry services in theory and practice, reviews Federal policy enacted to support reentry, suggests opportunities for improvements in public policy, and reviews promising initiatives. Principles and promising practices in reentry services and program include prerelease planning, access to services, and case management that extends at least 1 year beyond release from secure placement. At a minimum, reentry services should be located in the community where returning youth live, be matched to each youth's developmental deficits, focus on school performance, ensure a permanent family/guardianship, provide access to mental health and substance abuse treatment, include preparation for employment, and provide housing assistance for youth who cannot live with relatives and are approaching adulthood. The paper recommends the development of a national policy that supports reentry services for youth returning to the community after out-of-home secure placement. This policy should include strengthening the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act (JJDPA) to incorporate the reentry stage of youth involvement in the juvenile justice system; eliminate barriers to needed medical and mental health services for such youth; fund youth reentry grants to community-based and faith-based organizations; and provide incentives to States for reducing long-term incarceration and increasing reentry services that improve a youth's chance of positive adjustment and involvement in the community. 92 notes