In December 2024, the Washtenaw community recognized the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office Reentry Initiative with the WHI’s 2024 Collaborative Health Impact Award.
The goal of this collaboration is supporting individuals transitioning out of jail and reducing the likelihood of their reoffending. More than 20 community organizations collaborate as a multidisciplinary team, including:
- Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office (lead)
- Avalon Housing
- Washtenaw County Community Mental Health
- Dawn Farm
- Eastern Michigan University
- In Season Solutions
- Life After Incarceration Transition & Reentry
- Skill and Ability Education
- Therapeutics LLC
- Washtenaw Intermediate School District
Thinking about an incarcerated person’s continuum of care and the ability to more fluidly bridge pre and post-release services, the WCSO built partnerships with established community-based organizations to provide services in the jail and post release. This initiative is successful only through collaboration and in partnership with community-based organizations, by opening access to the jail for community organizations, and by engaging with and providing services inside the jail at the earliest point of contact.
New services and partnerships created for this initiative include: Medication assisted treatment for opioids, occupational therapy group and individual sessions, an employment skills group, a vocational certificate program, a partnership with MSHDA to provide Housing Choice Vouchers to some of the highest needs individuals experiencing homelessness, a partnership with Michigan Secretary of State to hold Mobile ID clinics inside the jail, and a partnership for field students in the Eastern Michigan University School of Social Work to come in and assist with screenings.
One of the biggest barriers the team works to address is housing instability. Stable housing is crucial for successful reentry, yet many individuals face difficulties due to long waitlists, eligibility requirements, and criminal background checks. In addition to housing support, the program also focuses on building relationships with landlords and local housing organizations to ensure clients have access to safe and supportive living environments. The program’s success relies on partnerships across sectors.
By continuing to provide comprehensive reentry services, the collaboration is creating lasting impact within Washtenaw County. This program not only supports individuals in their transition back into the community but also contributes to systems-level change that promotes stability, reduces recidivism, and creates hope for a better future.
Key Achievements Include:
- $1 Million Grant: Received from the U.S. Bureau of Justice Administration to enhance reentry services for individuals with mental health and substance use disorders.
- Housing Vouchers: Provided housing vouchers and financial assistance to support individuals with stable housing for up to 12 months post-release.
- Collaborative Partnerships: Built strong connections with local housing organizations and nonprofits to expand housing options and provide a robust support network.
- Peer Support Specialists: Hired and trained peer support specialists to offer guidance and mentorship to individuals during their reentry journey.
- Case Management: Launched tailored case management services, ensuring individuals receive comprehensive support through their transition from jail to the community.
- Reduced Recidivism: Made significant progress in reducing recidivism rates by focusing on key reentry needs and providing long-term support.
Through this collaborative work, Washtenaw County is setting the stage for ongoing transformation, one individual at a time.