Michigan Works! West Central and the Michigan Department of Corrections successfully hosted the fifth annual Reentry United conference on Aug. 14, bringing together hundreds of professionals, advocates, corrections personnel, policymakers and individuals with lived experience to advance one shared goal: helping justice-involved individuals successfully return to their communities and the workforce.

What began in 2022, as a regional effort has evolved into the largest reentry-focused conference in Michigan, drawing attendees from across the state and beyond. This year's conference marked another important milestone for the initiative, which continues to serve as a model for collaboration between workforce development, corrections, education, employers and community organizations.

Built on a Foundation of Collaboration

The Reentry United initiative was established to address one of Michigan's most persistent workforce and community challenges: ensuring individuals returning from incarceration have access to the support, services and opportunities necessary for long-term success.

The inaugural conference in 2022, brought together approximately 250 stakeholders from across Michigan. This annual event highlights successful partnerships between workforce agencies, corrections professionals and community organizations while showcasing inspiring stories of individuals who successfully rebuilt their lives after incarceration. Discussions focused on education, workforce development, community partnerships, policy reform and innovative approaches to reentry services.

The strong response from participants demonstrated a need for a forum where professionals working across the reentry continuum could gather to share strategies, discuss challenges and learn from one another. Organizers quickly committed to making the conference an annual event.

Attendance increased significantly throughout the years, with more than 350 participants attending the 2026, conference in Grand Rapids. The attendance of corrections professionals from across the country reinforced Michigan's growing reputation as a national leader in reentry innovation and collaboration. Representatives from more than a dozen other states have traveled to Michigan to learn about the programs, partnerships and best practices helping drive positive reentry outcomes.



"The continued growth of Reentry United demonstrates Michigan Works! West Central's leadership in convening state and national partners around one of the workforce system's most important challenges: helping justice-involved individuals successfully reenter the workforce and their communities," said Shelly Keene, Michigan Works! West Central CEO. "The conference has grown from about 250 attendees in 2022, to a nationally-recognized event attracting participants from across Michigan and 15 other states, further elevating the organization's reputation as a leader in workforce development, collaboration and second-chance employment initiatives."

An estimated nearly 1,500 stakeholders have attended the annual conference since it began in 2022. 

Highlighting Hope, Opportunity and Second Chances

Breakout sessions (28 at this year's conference) addressed topics including workforce pathways, veteran services, educational opportunities within correctional facilities, addiction recovery and other critical supports that help individuals transition successfully into their communities. The event also explored Michigan's continued progress in reducing recidivism and strengthening reentry services statewide.

This year's conference entered a new chapter with a move to Grand Valley State University's Kirkhof Center in Allendale. The larger venue accommodated expanded programming and reflected the continued growth of the event.

The 2026, conference centered on the theme "Breaking Barriers," emphasizing the importance of removing obstacles that prevent successful reintegration into society. Participants explored innovative approaches to workforce development, education, housing, mentoring, peer support, trauma-informed care and community engagement.

Opening remarks were delivered by Michigan Department of Corrections Director Heidi Washington, while keynote speaker Dr. Kendall Taylor, co-founder and CEO of Salute 1st, challenged attendees to think boldly about leadership, resilience and creating pathways for long-term success.

Supporting Workforce Development Through Reentry

For Michigan Works! West Central, the conference represents more than a single-day event. It reflects a broader commitment to strengthening workforce participation and supporting individuals facing barriers to employment.

Reentry United aligns closely with the workforce system's mission of connecting individuals to education, training and employment opportunities that lead to self-sufficiency. By helping returning citizens access these opportunities, the initiative contributes to stronger communities, a larger talent pipeline for employers and better outcomes for families across Michigan.

The conference also serves as an important venue for sharing best practices among service providers, fostering new partnerships and identifying innovative approaches that can be replicated in communities throughout the state.

Through the leadership of Michigan Works! West Central, the Michigan Department of Corrections and numerous community partners, Reentry United continues to bring together the people and organizations necessary to create meaningful pathways toward success.

The continued expansion of attendance, programming and statewide participation demonstrates both the effectiveness of the model and the growing commitment to ensuring that every returning citizen has the opportunity to build a productive future. By breaking barriers, strengthening partnerships and promoting second chances, Reentry United continues to make a measurable difference in communities across Michigan and beyond.

Be sure to checkout pictures from this year's event below. For more information about Reentry United, visit MWWC.org/ReentryUnited.