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ABOUT US.

We believe in providing our guests with a safe space to meet immediate needs and focus on personal growth. 

OUR APPROACH.

We Meet You Where You Are

FORC believes in providing our guests with a safe space to meet immediate needs and focus on personal growth. During office hours – Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 10am to 2pm – anyone on parole, probation or who has been incarcerated can visit for assistance with clothing, toiletries, public transportation, housing referrals and more.

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We meet you where you are. We don’t judge you for your past or criminal convictions. We’ll connect you with our weekly support group and set you up with computer and other life skills training that will help you secure housing and employment – key milestones to successfully reentering society.

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Several of our staff members and volunteers are returning citizens. They’ve been in your shoes and have the unique perspective to provide support, encouragement and help you navigate the obstacles.

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As part of our mission, we also advocate for criminal justice reform, working to end unjust convictions and work within the legislative process to create just policies.

FORC Founders Craig Whilby &
Jamil Allen-Bey
FORC leaders and board.jpg
FORC Leadership Team

OUR HISTORY.

Founders Passionate About Giving Back

FORC founders Craig Whilby and Jamil Allen-Bey know what it’s like to face the harsh reality of reentering society after many years behind bars. Both served 30+ years in prison, sentenced at the tender ages of 17 and 16, respectively. Their experiences as returning citizens inspired them to team up with Detroit Catholic Pastoral Alliance (DCPA). In fact, Whilby credits the encouragement and support he received from DCPA during his sentence as his inspiration to give back and help make reentry a little easier for others.

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Starting in early 2021, DCPA’s Community Action Committee worked closely with Whilby and Allen-Bey to get Friends of Returning Citizens (FORC) off the ground. With office space in the St. Elizabeth Community Center on Detroit’s east side, FORC began offering clothing, monthly bus passes, computer skills training and support groups to those in need. The organization also committed to criminal justice reform, following and supporting legislative actions in Lansing, Michigan.

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Today, FORC has assisted nearly 100 returning citizens in Detroit, and we continue our transformation. In 2024, the organization became a separate 501(c)(3) nonprofit and now collaborates with A Brighter Way, a Washtenaw County-based service provider to formerly incarcerated individuals. A Brighter Way serves as fiduciary agent for FORC and is collaborating with us to expand the scope and impact of our reentry services.

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No matter where this path leads, our doors will always be open to all returning citizens and their families.

Our Team.

We’re passionate about helping returning citizens navigate their challenges and find a positive path forward. Our team includes knowledgeable support professionals and formerly incarcerated individuals who have first-hand experience with the difficult journey back to freedom.

Leadership & Staff

Board of Directors

© 2025. All Rights Reserved.

CONNECT

Friends of Returning Citizens

3127 E Canfield Street

Detroit, MI 48207

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PHONE: 313.926.6770

EMAIL: f.o.r.c.2023@gmail.com

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OFFICE HOURS:

M-W-F 10am to 2pm

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