Community Connection Circles (CCC) provide circles of support to ex-offenders returning to the community. The CCC is a program offered through the Dakota County Re-Entry Assistance Program (RAP).

The program is based on the Circle of Support and Accountability (COSA) model has been successfully used since 1994 in Canada, United Kingdom, and the United States.

Circles of Support are based on restorative justice principles. Each circle has a team of 3-5 community members who receive training and support from professionals. The circle meets regularly to facilitate the transitioning member's practical needs, to provide emotional support, to challenge the behaviors and attitudes, to develop constructive and pro-social strategies to address everyday problems.

 The Benefits of Circles of Support are

• Reduction in relapse and recidivism
• Neighbors thrive
• Communities are safe