The Turn Around - Hear Michael's Full Story

Michael, 45, exited prison in May 2025 with only the clothes on his back. He was withdrawn and overwhelmed with the re-entry process. When he arrived at Clifton Place, he worked closely with his case manager to start seeing a  therapist to consider his next steps. He knew that while he stayed in Clifton Place, he wouldn't have to worry about safe shelter, meals or finding support. 

With the help of staff, he considered all the felon friendly careers he could pursue and decided on becoming a truck driver. It offered him flexibility, job security, a good salary and freedom, now, Michael needed only to study to get the appropriate license before he could get the job. He worked hard in the coming weeks, passing the written test and practicing with his permit. A friend stepped up to lend him some money to pay for the process and soon after, Michael passed the driving test. 

Having secured a job, he started working on finding a felon-friendly place to rent as his 90 days in Clifton Place was rapidly nearing the end. Together with his case manager, he found an apartment that was safe, in a convenient location for work and would make him comfortable. In the meantime, he was provided with lunch to take to work every day and he began to save up for his furniture.

The Clifton Place exterior pictured above. Opened in 1971, the interior was recently renovated in a $4.1 million project.

Michael moved into his new apartment in July and has been working as a truck driver for almost 3 months. He stills sees a therapist to process his emotions when he feels anxious about his new journey and checks in with his parole officer to meet the conditions of his release. Last month, he reconnected with his siblings and they've planned a family re-union for later this fall. He went from being overwhelmed and shutting down, to rebuilding a life that brings him immense pride - a direct result of his hard work. 

When asked to reflect on his journey now Michael said “I arrived at 180 Degrees in May with nothing but the clothes on my back. Coming out of prison, I had no income. I was worried how I’d make it. Clifton Place gave me a safe place to stay, meals, and support. With housing and food taken care of, I was able to focus on finding a job."

The brand new family room located inside Clifton Place. The $4.1 million Clifton Place renovation was completed earlier this spring and has capacity for up to 36 residents.