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Registration is now open for the 5th annual Reentry United Conference! This year’s theme is Breaking Barriers, highlighting successful partnerships, programs and services benefiting those incarcerated and those recently released.
Conference Highlights:
- Opening Speaker: Heidi Washington, MDOC Director
- Keynote Speaker: Dr. Kendall Taylor, Founder & CEO, Salute 1st.
- 28 unique breakout sessions featuring speakers from across the country on education, reentry housing, peer-led programs, the arts and more.
Breakfast and lunch will be provided and a wide variety of resource tables will be on site. Resource tables are available for $100. If you're interested in hosting a table at the event, please contact: Angie Sprank at SprankA@Michigan.gov.
With 325 seats offered this year, it will sell out quick! We welcome your participation and look forward to having you join us.
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Since April 2026, Mediation & Restorative Services has been an invaluable partner in advancing the mission of Reentry United. Their commitment to creating a more peaceful community by reducing conflict and crime aligns closely with our shared goal of supporting successful reentry and long-term community well-being.
Mediation & Restorative Services envisions a future where conflicts are resolved in ways that are effective, respectful, and restorative. Through our partnership, we have seen firsthand the impact of this approach and the positive difference it makes for individuals, families and communities.
We are excited to continue building on this strong collaboration as we work together to strengthen service delivery, address emerging needs, and expand support into areas that have previously been beyond our reach. By helping families rebuild trust, improve communication, and navigate challenges together, the Mediation & Restorative Services team will play a critical role in promoting family stability, reducing recidivism and supporting positive long-term outcomes.
Strong families are often the foundation of successful reentry. We are grateful for the partnership, expertise, and shared vision that Mediation & Restorative Services brings to our work, and we look forward to continuing this important journey together.
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From Reentry to Community Impact:
Monika McCain's Story of Success
Every reentry journey comes with challenges, but it is often perseverance, support and determination that transform obstacles into opportunities. Monika McCain's story is a powerful example of what is possible when individuals are equipped with the right tools and resources to succeed.
Currently on parole in Kent County, Monika encountered several roadblocks throughout her reentry process. Despite these challenges, she remained focused on building a brighter future. Today, she is employed at Mel Trotter Thrift Store and has achieved an important milestone: Securing her own apartment and creating a stable foundation for the next chapter of her life. When reflecting on her reentry journey, Monika credits the support she received through the OS program for helping her stay focused and continue moving forward.
"The OS program offered me a variety of tools that helped keep me grounded and excel in all I do," she said.
While employment and housing are significant accomplishments, Monika says the achievement she is most proud of is the opportunity to give back to her community. As a violence interrupter and mentor, she now uses her own experiences to help others navigate challenges and make positive life changes.
"My greatest accomplishment is giving back to our community as a violence interrupter and mentor. Being with like-minded individuals who want to change the narrative of misguided, misunderstood individuals in our community that were high risk. I can share through my own life experiences to make a difference," she said.
Monika's journey demonstrates the power of resilience, support and second chances. Her commitment to serving others and helping change lives is a reminder that successful reentry extends far beyond personal achievements, and that it creates stronger families, safer communities and hope for those who are still finding their path forward. We are proud to celebrate Monika's success and look forward to the continued impact she will have in her community.
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Mobile Food Pantry Returns to Fremont this Summer
Feeding America West Michigan’s Mobile Food Pantry is returning to the TrueNorth Service Center in Fremont this July and August, offering free food distributions to anyone in the community. These events provide fresh, nutritious food in a welcoming and accessible setting. No appointment required.
Distributions will be from 10 to 11:00 a.m. at TrueNorth Community Services, located at 6308 S. Warner Ave. in Fremont, on the following dates:
- Wednesday, July 8
- Wednesday, July 22
- Wednesday, Aug.t 12
- Wednesday, Aug. 26
Community members are encouraged to arrive early, as food is distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. This partnership helps ensure individuals and families have consistent access to healthy food throughout the summer months.
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Farmers markets are a great way to access fresh fruits, vegetables and other healthy foods while supporting local farmers and producers. SNAP recipients can use their benefits at many markets, helping expand access to nutritious options across our communities.
To find a nearby farmers market that accepts SNAP, visit the SNAP Retailer Locator. Simply enter your address or zip code, filter by “Farmers and Markets” under store type, and click apply to see available options in your area.
Additional guidance on using SNAP benefits at farmers markets is available through SNAP-Ed Connection.
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Looking to strengthen your housing stability? The Renting with Confidence class helps participants build the skills needed to successfully secure and maintain housing.
This discussion-based class covers topics such as understanding leases, tenant rights, budgeting and communicating effectively with landlords. Participants will also learn how to overcome common barriers like low income, past rental challenges or a criminal background.
By the end of the class, individuals will be better prepared to present themselves as strong renters and can earn a certificate of completion.
Classes are offered at various locations. Contact Gretchen Damm or Antonio Romanelli at Goodwill West Michigan for more information or to register. Click the button below for more information.
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Kent County Resource Summit
Join community partners for the Kent County Resource Summit, a one-stop event connecting justice-impacted individuals with valuable local resources and support services.
The summit will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursday, July 30, at Cathedral Square Center, 360 Division Ave. S. in Grand Rapids.
Attendees can explore a wide range of services, including employment, education, legal aid and reentry support, all in one place. The event will also feature raffles and giveaways, with prizes such as gift cards, bikes, and more. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn and take the next step forward.
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Region 4 Reentry Services is proud to have been awarded a grant through the Michigan Justice Fund (MJF) to expand support for individuals returning to the community after serving long-term sentences, including those who have maxed out their sentences and individuals who were formerly sentenced as juvenile lifers.
These individuals are not eligible for traditional OS-funded services, yet they often face some of the most significant barriers to successful reentry. After spending years — sometimes decades — incarcerated, many encounter challenges related to employment, housing and rebuilding connections with family and community.
Through this grant, we are able to bridge that gap by providing targeted, person-centered support designed to meet their unique needs. Participants have access to a wide range of services, including job-readiness training, employment placement, housing navigation and access to behavioral health resources. They also receive guidance and support as they navigate systems, rebuild relationships and work toward long-term stability.
This initiative reflects a shared commitment to second chances and stronger communities. By investing in individuals who have served their time, we're helping create meaningful opportunities for success while promoting safer, more connected neighborhoods across West Michigan. We are grateful to MJF for this award and their commitment to advancing equitable, effective reentry solutions.
| | Pictured are two of our participants covered by our MJF Grant. TOP: Mr. Vaugh attending a cooking class. ABOVE: Mr. Sparks enjoying a walk. | | | | |
