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Mark your calendars! Reentry United is back for another powerful gathering on Friday, Aug. 15!

Building on the success of last year’s event, the 2025, conference will bring together leaders, advocates and justice-impacted individuals from across Michigan to discuss innovative reentry strategies, share success stories and collaborate on solutions that can create lasting change.

Stay tuned for more details, including registration information, speaker announcements and exciting new breakout sessions!



Join us as we continue our mission to support second chances and strengthen reentry efforts nationwide. We can’t wait to see you there!

For more information and pictures from our 2024, conference, click here.

Bowling for Success! Region 4 OS Peer Navigator

Strikes, spares and second chances! 🎳 An OS Reentry Resource Navigator and Peer Navigator hit the lanes with Region 4 OS participants for a fun night of bowling, teamwork and building connections.

We are excited to announce William Kitchen (at right) has joined Region 4 OS Reentry team as a full-time Peer Navigator!

William’s lived experience and understanding of the reentry process allows him to build meaningful connections with participants on a peer-to-peer level. His role is essential in providing encouragement, guidance and real-world insight to those navigating the challenges of reentry.

Having someone who truly understands the journey makes a huge difference. We know William’s support will be invaluable to our participants.

This is a significant step forward for Region 4, as we continue to strengthen the resources and support available to justice-involved individuals. We are confident William’s dedication and passion will have a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve.

Building strong relationships and creating positive experiences are key to successful reentry. That’s why our Resource Navigator and Peer Navigator recently took OS participants out for a fun-filled night of bowling!

Rolling into a brighter future! This OS participant is striking down barriers and building connections one frame at a time.

Nothing but smiles and strikes! This OS participant is knocking down pins and barriers on the road to success. 

The event was more than just strikes and spares — it was about teamwork, connection and support. Giving participants the chance to engage in positive social activities helps build confidence, strengthen relationships and create a sense of community. We’re excited to continue finding engaging ways to support and uplift our participants, and we look forward to more events like this in the future!

Welcome to the team, William! We can’t wait to see the positive changes you’ll bring to our participants and the reentry community.

For more information about OS Reentry Services, click here.

Probation Program Update

Celebrating 1 Year of the Probation Program. A Year of Impact!

March 2025, marks the completion of our first year of the Probation Program, and we are proud to reflect on the impact its made in such a short time. Over the past year, we have provided a total of 3,417 services to probationers, demonstrating the significant need for reentry support within our community.

Program Highlights:

• Economic Stability: 284 services provided
• Mentoring: 265 individuals supported
• Clothing Vouchers: 102 distributed
• Transportation Assistance: 423 services offered
• Identification Assistance: 82 individuals helped
• Hygiene/Food Assistance & Housing Supplies: 46 provided
• Health & Behavioral Health Services: 1,636 individuals served
• Base Housing Support: 8 people assisted
• Rental Assistance: 14 people assisted
• Work Supplies: 33 individuals equipped

As the program continues to grow, we have seen an increase in referrals, further emphasizing the ongoing need for probationer support. Our team remains committed to expanding services, strengthening partnerships and finding innovative ways to assist individuals on their path to stability and success.

We are excited to see how the second year of the program unfolds and we look forward to continuing our mission of empowering probationers through essential services and resources. Thank you to our partners, supporters and dedicated team for making this program a success!

For more information about OS Reentry Services, click here.

Christopher Allen – A Journey of Determination and Growth

After spending several years in prison, Christopher Allen was released in February 2024, ready to take control of his future. He was referred to the Region 4 Offender Success (OS) Reentry Program, where he immediately set out to rebuild his life. With a strong determination to succeed, he partnered with Goodwill of West Michigan, OS Reentry Resource Navigator Antonio Romanelli and Economic Stability Provider Joseph Gordon to overcome the challenges ahead.

One of the biggest hurdles Christopher faced was securing employment. Like many returning citizens, he encountered multiple rejections due to his criminal background. However, he refused to be discouraged. He kept applying, attending interviews and proving his willingness to work.

Christopher Allen (left) proudly receives his Certificate of Accomplishment from Goodwill of West Michigan, recognizing his dedication and hard work. Also pictured is OS Reentry Resource Navigator Antonio Romanelli, who has supported Christopher on his journey to success.

His perseverance paid off in July 2024, when he landed a job in production at Port City Industrial. This opportunity gave him not only financial stability, but also a renewed sense of purpose. Christopher continues to work there today, proving his dedication and reliability every day.

But employment was just one piece of the puzzle. OS Reentry also assisted Christopher in obtaining his driver’s license, a critical step toward independence. When he felt ready to move into his own apartment, the program provided rental assistance to help him take that next step. These milestones, though significant, are just the foundation of the life he was determined to build.

Reflecting on his experience, Christopher encourages others in reentry to stay committed to their goals: "Keep at it, keep hitting the pavement. Don’t give up."

His Resource Navigator, Antonio Romanelli, recognized Christopher’s dedication from the start: "He had the drive and wanted to succeed from day one. Christopher always has a positive attitude and wants to do as much for himself as he can."

Today, Christopher is thriving. He is employed, living independently and building a brighter future. His story is a testament to the power of resilience, hard work and the support systems in place to help returning citizens succeed. Christopher’s journey is a reminder that with determination and the right resources, a second chance can turn into a life full of opportunity.

 For more information about OS Reentry Services, click here.