Approximately 95% of all prisoners entering will eventually be released. That is about 10,000 per year statewide. The counties of Ingham, Eaton and Clinton receive about 309 new parolees each year. An additional 40 or so of prisoners are released who have served their maximum sentence. The ex-offenders rejoining the community need jobs, housing, counseling and other support services if they are to succeed. If they do not succeed, they will likely commit new offenses and return to prison.
These new crimes cost the victims and the State millions of dollars.
In the beginning of October the NorthWest Initiative (NWI) started an ex-offenders and family group. NWI collaborates with agencies that are part of The Michigan Prisoner ReEntry Initiative (MPRI) it is a cooperative effort of the Michigan Departments of Corrections, Community Health, Human Services, Labor & Economic Growth, the Governor’s Office and numerous non-governmental entities. Its objective is to create safer neighborhoods and better citizens.
The NorthWest Initiative group comes together in order to help correct the misconceptions that exist in society towards ex offenders, and how to educate the community on positive contributions that men and women bring to our community upon re-entry.
Their primary goal is to provide services to family and ex offenders with answers to questions and available resources in one place.
The NorthWest Initiative is inviting all to attend the monthly meetings in order to give input and suggestions on how to accomplish this goal.
The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, October 18, 2006, 4:30pm – 6:00pm at NorthWest Initiative, 125 W. Main St., Lansing, MI 48933.
An informational forum will be held on October 23, 2006 from 12:30-2:30pm at NorthWest Initiative, 125 W. Main St., Lansing, MI 48933. This is your opportunity to come and learn from former ex offender and their families.
They will provide light refreshments and if transportation is needed please call and that can be arranged.
To RSVP, questions or comments please contact Penny Adrian at 517-483-4499 Ext: 4 or penny@nwlansing.org.
