I am an administrative assistant in a counseling office. We have a contract with the Michigan Department of Corrections to provide substance abuse outpatient counseling to parolee's.

Michigan introduced the MPRI Program a few years ago in select pilot counties. Our county, Macomb, was one of them and we have been working with Michigan Prisoner ReEntry Inititive for some time now. It is supposed to help in reducing the recidivism rate (those that relapse on parole and go back to prison).

So far, I dont see much difference between those in the MRPI program and those that arent. As a matter of fact, I bet if I went thru our past discharges for the last year I would find that there is not much of a difference in people in the program and those not in the program.

You can do a search for MPRI and find out alot more info.

Is there anyone here who has a loved one either in prison in Michigan or on Parole? Possibly someone in the MRPI program. I would love to hear from you.

I am also a recovering alcoholic, going to college to become a substance abuse therapist, I should have my bachelors in about 3 years. Then to a masters and who knows where else. I got sober almost 7 years ago at age 41, started college at age 47 and know that there is nothing I cannot conquer as long as I stay sober. Working with those on parole is a passion for me due to my step brother, who died from his disease while on parole and a few friends who also died while on parole.

There is life after drugs and alcohol. I am proof and my sponsor with 31 years sober is proof. If you have never attended an AA convention, do so, you will learn alot and they are open to anyone

I think I am going to enjoy exploring this site and sharing and reading shares, thanks for reading my share today
:):D:thumbsup:

My ex boyfriend managed to last three years on parole. His parole was supposed to be eighteen months and he was released before MPRI started up. His drug use is what caused him to go back and it was amazing that he didn't catch a new case, but he had quite a few parole violations that did eventually send him back.
Meanwhile my current boyfriend is in prison and he will have to do MPRI and he is already getting some things together to get ready to be released on parole. We are hoping he doesn't get a continance again.

Hi Lee-Ann, the biggest problem we are seeing with the parolee's is their lack of admitting they are alcholics/addicts, and getting them to go to AA/NA meetings. A total life change can occur by working AA/NA's 12 Steps. Urge him to attend as many meetings a week as he did using drugs/alcohol. And you would benefit greatly from Alanon or NarAnon meetings. Just do a search online and you will find what you need.

If your current boyfriend is being released into Macomb County he might come to our office. My boss is an ex convict/drug user. He spent time in prison, got out on parole and changed his life. Its possible. I did too.

Cherie'

Thanks for the info. I've been to Alanon meetings before to better understand my brother's addictions. My current boyfriend is coming home to me which is Wayne County.