Michael on a recent visit to American Indian OIC.
Michael’s journey to success began in an unlikely place—prison. In 2021, he found himself incarcerated in Minnesota’s Togo Correctional Facility and facing the consequences of years spent struggling with addiction. It was at the tail end of his addiction that Michael realized something had to change. Estranged from his children and family, he was determined to turn his life around, reconnect with his loved ones, and make a fresh start. His path to redemption started with a simple decision and encouragement from his correctional facility’s transitions coordinator: to sign up for American Indian OIC’s reentry education and employment program before leaving incarceration.
Michael joined the program last year and dove right in, eager to gain the skills and support needed to rebuild his life. Angee and Jack, two AIOIC staff members, became his lifelines.
One of Michael’s biggest challenges was finding stable employment, but AIOIC’s hands-on support made a big difference. With Angee’s help, Michael got his driver’s license back, a crucial first step toward self-sufficiency. Little-by-little and step-by-step, Michael worked to rebuild his life. He attained job training credentials from AIOIC’s Takoda Institute, attended career fairs, and worked with Jack to refresh his résumé.
After attending several career fairs and with Jack’s support, Michael found full-time work as a welder and fabricator, a field he was employed in before addiction took its hold. Now, more than a year into his new job, Michael enjoys great benefits, stable hours, and a steady paycheck, all while working for a company that values him.
Michael’s life is much better now. He is four years sober and his relationship with his children has grown stronger. Obstacles that once seemed insurmountable now feel manageable.
Reflecting on his journey, Michael offers this advice to others considering joining our reentry program: “Go for it. The AIOIC staff is incredibly helpful, accommodating, understanding, and nurturing. What may seem overwhelming can be overcome with the right motivation and the right people by your side. Even on your worst days, it’s better than your best days before. Don’t give up.”
Michael continues to stay in touch with Jack for ongoing support and resources. He is excited about his future and hopes to continue growing at his company. He’s even taken on the role of mentoring an intern who is studying engineering, paying forward the support he received. Michael’s ultimate goal? Homeownership. With everything else he’s already accomplished, he is now focused on securing a home for his family and continuing to build the life he’s always wanted.
Michael’s story is a testament to the power of second chances and the importance of support from caring people and organizations. Through American Indian OIC, Michael reclaimed his future —and now, he’s helping others do the same.
