Shaye Smith
Research Mentor: Ann Johnson
Mentor Department: Dream of Detroit, NonUM
Author(s): Shaye Smith, Ann Johnson
Session: Session 3 (11:00 AM – 11:50 AM)
Presentation Type: Poster 102
Abstract
Dream of Detroit serves the West Detroit area, providing essential community development programs to its neighbors. One of their aims is to provide reentry support, which they do through Project Homecoming, a home for previously incarcerated men. Not only does Project Homecoming provide stable, free housing for the individuals served, but it also supports them with holistic resources such as employment services, mental health support, health care, and a faithful Muslim community. This all-encompassing type of service and faith-led support is what sets DREAM apart from other reentry organizations. This research was conducted during a time of transition for Project Homecoming and aimed to identify the program’s strengths and the gaps it fills in meeting the needs of Detroit residents. To complete the exploration, internet searches, document analysis, and interviews were conducted. Interviewees ranged from reentry workers to previously incarcerated individuals to capture the opinion of all those involved in the reentry process. A comparison was drawn between DREAM and other reentry organizations to assess how Project Homecoming relates to its community. Specific research was also done on the role of restoration. The findings are primarily applied internally to inform the Project Homecoming team on what aspects of the program are strong, could be strengthened, or are worth funneling extra effort towards expanding. Possible outcomes include internal developments and a more informed staff, as well as information for similar organizations that can emulate the holistic approach of DREAM that this project showed has been effective and meaningful for reentry citizens.
