After launching in 2018, the No One Leaves Alone (NOLA) Reintegration Project is seeing its first group of dynamic members approach their warrant expiry dates. This means the conclusion of their sentences, and the end of supervision by Correctional Services Canada (CSC) and the parole board.
Among the group is Michael, a NOLA dynamic member who has been serving his sentence in community since last June. He sees warrant expiry as an important milestone, but not necessarily the focal point of his life.
“This is about being able to continue as a productive, God-fearing human being,” he said, speaking over the phone earlier this week. “I’ll be glad when the time comes, but I don’t want to make it bigger than it has to be.”
The next chapter in Michael’s journey back to the community arrives with some uncertainty. He got hurt at work last December, and has been trying to regain his health and also continue his schooling. He is taking courses to earn a National Construction Safety Officer (NCSO) designation.
“I’m trying to rehab, to get back into fighting form,” he said. “With God’s help and some diligence, I will be able to work.“
Adding to his challenges, Michael needs to find a place to live, as well as furnishings. The COVID-19 crisis has made all of this difficult. His classes are on hold, and he is allowed only three hours a day outside the halfway house where he currently resides.
“It takes a lot of faith to trust God,” he said. “Not knowing is uncomfortable. Whenever I face uncertainty, I remember that God didn’t give us a spirit of fear. But of power and of love, and of a sound mind. To be positive and look to the Lord. It can be done. Even when you don’t know. God knows. And I trust that.”
“I hope I can inspire people to trust God.”
Walking Alongside Others
As a member of the NOLA program, Michael has been meeting regularly with his circle—which includes his Case Manager, Kendrew Friesen, and three volunteers—since last year. During the pandemic, they have shifted their weekly meetings online, replacing in-person visits with video conferences.
“Michael’s an outgoing, relational guy,” said Kendrew. “He’s feeling cooped up, like many of us are, during the pandemic.”
Kendrew was able to arrange a brief visit. “We met in a park for about half an hour. He appreciated having someone to reach out to.”
Michael’s circle has been helping him brainstorm ideas for finding work, as well as praying with him and spending time together over Zoom.
“NOLA’s support is huge,” said Michael. “Just knowing they are there, emotionally, they are a big help.”
Showing Resiliency
Because NOLA provides “wraparound support,” Kendrew said, the circle will continue to meet even after Michael’s warrant expires.
“In spite of all he’s been through, Michael has shown resiliency.” Kendrew said. “He’s moving forward. He’s been networking, looking for work, and trying to survive. He’s doing his best to start over and never go back.”
Michael described gaining strength and motivation from faith. “I am resilient because of Christ, and what he’s done in my life,” he said. “Maybe I’ll be able to help somebody help themselves in the future. I’ve got to land on my feet first—and we’re headed toward that—but we’re not at the finish line. These earthly things are tiny compared to heaven.”
How You Can Help
Michael, along with many other NOLA dynamic members, needs groceries, furniture, and quality household goods to help furnish his home. To help out, click one of the gift options below. The link opens our secure donation page. Use the comment section to indicate the type of gift you’d like to make. Thank you!
