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We had another impactful year, continuing to deliver critical support and opportunities that empower justice-impacted individuals to successfully reintegrate into their communities.



Region 4 Services

As we move into the new year, we want to share how different OS Reentry services have been used across Region 4’s 13 counties. This isn’t about numbers or statistics, it’s about understanding where needs are growing and how we can keep supporting individuals better.

Here’s what we’re seeing:

Some supports are being used more than ever.

More people are getting help with:

• Transportation
• Hygiene/Food boxes
• Clothing
• ID services
• Base Housing

This tells us many justice-impacted individuals are reaching out, asking for help and staying connected — and that’s a good thing! Every time someone calls, shows up, asks a question or connects with a provider, it helps us understand what’s working and how we can improve. We’re proud of the progress we are seeing, whether it's someone rebuilding their life, reconnecting with family, searching for work or focusing on their health. No one should feel like they’re doing this alone, and we’re here to help every step of the way.

CDL Truck Driving Program

The CDL Truck Driving Program continues to be one of our most successful programs to date, with a total of 156 graduates completing the program since 2016. With FY25 having the most participants complete the program to date.

These graduates are now equipped with valuable, in-demand skills that position them for stable, long-term employment in the transportation industry.

Pictured are some of our recent graduates! 

• Justin Croff
• Jacob Chapin
• Marvin Rose
• Amesha Jackson
• Mitchell Fuller
• Elroy Sanders

For more information about the truck driver training program, click here.

Road to Restoration Events

Two of our counties (Muskegon and Ottawa) hosted Road to Restoration events this year. These free clinics assist Michigan residents in navigating the process of reinstating their driving privileges. OS participants in both counties were able to attend and receive direct guidance, helping to remove one of the most common barriers to employment and independence after release.

For more information about Road to Restoration Events, click here, or watch the below video for an overview of the program

Looking Ahead to 2026

As we look ahead to the new year, our focus is on carrying forward the momentum we’ve built, while staying flexible to new opportunities and challenges. We’ll continue refining our processes, strengthening collaboration and prioritizing the work that drives the most impact. With a clear direction and a solid foundation, we’re well-positioned to make meaningful progress in the year ahead.

Warming Hearts & Building Community:

OS Winter Coat Drive Success

In October, Kent County Parole Resource Navigator Madison Phillips took the initiative to launch a winter coat drive for OS participants. With enthusiastic approval from Community Coordinator Angie Sprank, Madison and the Kent County interns quickly mobilized, reaching out to local organizations for support.

Their efforts were met with overwhelming generosity. Orchard Hill Church and Cascade Christian Church donated 80 winter coats, several knitted blankets and snow pants. The Grand Valley State University College of Education and Community Innovation (including the departments for social work and criminal justice, among others) contributed 109 pairs of socks, 24 hats and 28 pairs of gloves. These donations have made a tangible difference for returning citizens facing the harsh Michigan winter.

This project is a testament to the power of collaboration and compassion. Without the dedication and hard work of our resource navigators and the generosity of our community partners, efforts like this would not be possible. Together, we are making a real impact, helping our population stay warm, supported and hopeful for the future.

Pictured Above: Intern Kensley, Intern Claire, Resource Navigator Madison, Intern Tia.

Spotlight on Service:

Agents and Navigators Who Go Above and Beyond

Going the Extra Mile:

Collaboration Makes a Difference for Returning Citizens

The following memo from Agent Travis Rosema highlights the outstanding teamwork between corrections staff and resource navigators. Their proactive and compassionate approach demonstrates how dedicated support can truly change lives for individuals transitioning back into society. By securing an expedited appointment, providing transportation, and covering essential costs, the team showcased remarkable commitment to ensuring a successful reentry journey. Their actions exemplify the power of going above and beyond to help justice-impacted individuals take positive steps forward.

Goodwill Industries of West Michigan demonstrates significant commitment to supporting individuals through its Renting with Confidence Program. This initiative provides participants with valuable insights into landlord expectations and strategies for overcoming rental obstacles. The program’s discussion-based format equips individuals with the tools to present themselves as optimal tenants.

By addressing the complexities of renting, this program exemplifies how collective understanding benefits both renters and the broader community. Jeremy and Melanie Garcia, respected figures in the local real-estate sector, were highlighted in Michigan Landlords Quarterly Magazine for their commendation of Goodwill Industries of West Michigan’s Renting with Confidence Program.

When our community unites around a common purpose, such as assisting those navigating housing challenges, we foster resilience and create meaningful opportunities for those in need.

For further details, the Garcia's Member Spotlight article is available beginning on page 14. Click Here to read the article.

If you wish to learn more about Goodwill Industries of West Michigan’s Renting with Confidence program, additional information can be found on their website by clicking here.

SAVE THE DATE:

Reentry United 2026

The 5th Annual Reentry United Conference will return on Aug. 14, 2026, at a fresh new venue: Grand Valley State University’s Allendale Campus!

Join us for an inspiring and energizing event where Michigan’s brightest minds unite to spark new ideas and build positive momentum for reentry statewide. Together, let’s make this year’s conference our best yet! Registration and presentation proposal information will be coming soon!

Additionally in 2025, we wrapped up our efforts with a total of 26 Reentry United events held in front of more than 2,000 incarcerated individuals, demonstrating our ongoing commitment to supporting successful reentry across Michigan.