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Our Mission |
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Alternative Directions,
Inc., a Baltimore-based statewide 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization
established in 1979, helps Men and women in prison and those leaving
prison become independent, responsible citizens. We provide civil
legal pro-se services to those in prison and comprehensive case
management to those returning to their communities. ADI also
educates the public and policy makers about the barriers former
prisoners face when reentering society.
What is more important is our record of helping men and women in prison with civil legal issues, and helping those men and women to change their lives when they leave prison. Try to picture yourself leaving the prison where you were told what you could or could not do 24 hours a day. When you leave, you have $50 in your pocket, you are expected to find an apartment, have a security deposit and the first month’s rent, and get the utilities turned on. A bus pass costs $64 a month. Most people not only need to report to parole and probation weekly, but also have to pay $40 per month supervision fee and $25 a week for urinalysis. There could be court costs that will have to be paid. With a felony record you will learn it is hard to get a job. Getting your children back can be really overwhelming. Finally, there are medical, dental, mental health, and addictions issues that need to be addressed. Did the crime, served the time doesn’t really happen. The crime is not forgiven, the time goes on and on even after a persons release, they can’t vote, it’s hard to get medical assistance, housing, and definitely jobs are few and hard to come by. Our job here at ADI is to help a person to overcome the odds against them after leaving prison and help those individuals to not resort to their old ways of making a living. We forgive their past life, and expect them to forgive themselves and go forward and become sometimes for the first time in their lives, responsible for themselves, their families and the community. We honor those men and women who have changed their lives and I especially thank all of you who have supported Alternative Directions, Inc, to make it possible. |
As
you can see from the photograph, Alternative Directions, Inc. has
again received the Seal of Excellence from the Maryland Association
of Nonprofit Organizations. This seal is awarded to those agencies
that are known for their honesty, integrity, respect, trust,
responsibility, and accountability. Of the thousands of nonprofits
in Maryland, only 73 have met these standards and received the Seal
of Excellence. This is important because it lets people know that
when someone donates money to Alternative Directions we can be
trusted.