Presentation Outline Why we need a prisoner reentry program What is happening with MPRI statewide What is happening locally How you can help Questions

The Cost of Failure $2 billion FY ’09 for the Michigan Department of Corrections operations $30,000 annually per person $45,000 for physically and mentally ill The recidivism rate in Washtenaw County was 76%!

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

Offers an Alternate 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 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 was one of seven “Round 2” sites As of 2007 all counties in Michigan now have MPRI programs Parolees return to their home counties Implementation of the 18 MPRI regions

MPRI Begins in Prison Prisoners were sent to any state facility based on custody level and 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 300 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? Baseline as of 9/06: Ypsilanti Township: - 32% Ann Arbor - 25% City of Ypsilanti: % Other county locations: % Superior Township: - 8.5% Pittsfield Township - 2%

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 Services & Faith Based leaders, as well as 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 is the MPRI Local Plan? Comprehensive Case Management services for every returning citizen 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

MPRI Participants receive support and supervision from: Parole Agents Case Managers MPRI Interns Community Coaches

Community Coach Role Mentor a person newly released from prison for a period of 6 months Engage MPRI participant in positive activities such as: Setting school/personal/career goals Everyday/conflict management Drug and alcohol-free activities Encourage strong work ethic and delayed gratification

Coach Training and Matching Coaches receive extensive training and will be carefully matched with a MPRI participant according to gender, age, interests and experience and must be approved by both parties.

Being a Community Coach One-on-one mentoring Group mentoring –Washtenaw Community College Pre and Post Enrollment –MPRI Intensive Supportive Housing (MISH) Addresses issues of substance abuse, finding a job, and finding permanent housing MPRI Sponsored Pro-Social Activities –Community Connection Dinners, Movie Nights, Bowling, etc.

Reduce Crime in Our Communities Inspire Someone to Create a Better Life Learn About the Criminal Justice System Share Your Knowledge and Experience Decrease Stigma for Those Returning From Prison Develop a Meaningful Relationship Your Benefits

Help Reduce Stigma Encourage Employers to Hire MPRI Participants 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 group

Mary King MPRI Washtenaw County Community Coordinator (734) Robby Berlin Volunteer/Mentor Coordinator (734) Washtenaw County MPRI Program