Michigan Prisoner ReEntry Initiative (MPRI) Creating safer neighborhoods and better citizens

Presentation Outline I. Why we need a prisoner reentry program. II. What is happening with MPRI statewide. III. What is happening locally. IV. How you can help. V. Questions

The Cost of Failure $2 billion this year for the Michigan Department of Corrections operations $30,000 annually per person $45,000 for physically and mentally ill 46% recidivism rate statewide The recidivism rate in Washtenaw County is 76%!

Why do Parolees Fail? Barriers to housing & employment Difficulty in qualifying for mental health services No strong network of positive support Criminological thinking

The MPRI Offers an Alternative Vision

MPRI Vision The VISION of the Michigan Prisoner ReEntry Initiative is that every inmate released from prison will have the tools needed to succeed in the community.

MPRI Mission The MISSION of the Michigan Prisoner ReEntry Initiative is to reduce crime by implementing a seamless plan of services and supervision developed with each offender—delivered through state and local collaboration—from the time of their entry to prison through their transition, reintegration, and aftercare in the community.

A Statewide Plan MPRI piloted nine areas in 2005 – including Wayne County. Washtenaw is one of seven “Round 2” sites. All counties in Michigan have an MPRI program as of October Parolees return to their home counties.

MPRI Begins in Prison Prisoners were sent to any state facility based on custody level & available bed space. With MPRI, prisoners are sent to a facility nearest their home community 2 months prior to release. ReEntry services are provided by MDOC during this time.

Transition Teams A risk assessment (COMPAS) and Transition Accountability Plan (TAP) is created for each prisoner. A Transition Team (TT) of community providers/volunteers meets individually with prisoners. TT’s begin service delivery immediately, and continue after release for 6 months.

Washtenaw Statistics Each year approximately 200 prisoners return to their homes in Washtenaw 92% are men 8% are women 60% are African American 37% are White 3% are other ethnic minorities

Where do Parolees Live? As of 9/06: Ypsilanti Township: % Ann Arbor: 86 25% City of Ypsilanti: % Other county locations: % Superior Township: % Pittsfield Township: 9 2% Total parolees in Washtenaw County: 338

MPRI Local Model Catholic Social Services is our Administrative Agency. Parnall in Jackson & Huron Valley Women’s Facility in Ypsilanti are our “feeder” facilities. Our Steering Team includes Corrections, Law Enforcement, Human Service & Faith Based leaders, and people who have been incarcerated. Our Advisory Council is open to all interested members of the community. MPRI is not a new service provider agency.

What Does MPRI Do? Contract with local providers to fill gaps identified in the Community Assessment. Act as an access point for referrals. Provide coordination & support to agencies currently serving former prisoners. Advocate on the local, state & national levels to eliminate barriers & fill gaps in services needed for prisoners to successfully re-enter our community.

What is the MPRI Local Plan? Comprehensive Case Management services for every returning prisoner Engagement immediately upon release Activities for 70% of time over 90 days Replacement of criminal/using community with positive communities Referrals to existing resources Emergency housing

Local Plan Continued Permanent Housing referrals Employment services, mentoring and placements Family reunification & education ID & transportation assistance Substance abuse & mental health services Local law enforcement contact

A Community Problem The MDOC cannot solve recidivism. Recidivism is a community problem. MPRI is a community collaboration. There are many ways to help: – Become a “Community Coach” – Hire an MPRI Participant – Help fill funding gaps – Help reduce stigma

Volunteer Coaches Meet weekly & have daily phone contact for 1 st 90 days. Engage in positive activities. Matches based on gender & interests. Must be at least 20 with good communication skills & can make a 1 year commitment. MPRI provides training and support.

Employer Incentives Significant reimbursements for on-the-job training Tax credits for up to $2,400 for each new hire Free bonding up to $25,000 with 100% coverage Pre-screened for job readiness Closely supervised and actively supported

Funding Gaps Gift cards: – Undergarments – Personal items – “Welcome Home” meals – Pro-social activities with “Coaches”

Help Reduce Stigma Encourage Employers Support Supervised Housing in your community Engage in Public Education Support the MPRI program

Thank You For your time today For your support For your questions Please sign MPRI Interest Sheet if you would like to be contacted or join our e- mail group

Washtenaw County MPRI Program Mary King MPRI Washtenaw County Community Coordinator (734) Erin Moran Volunteer/ Mentor Coordinator (734) Miriam Shabazz Workforce Developer (734) Visit our website at: