This was a turning point for Michael, who became a participant in MISSION-Springfield, a SAMHSA grant-funded program of the Executive Office of Trial Courts in partnership with BHN and the UMass Chan Medical School. MISSION Springfield helps justice-involved adults in active addiction sustain recovery and stay out of the criminal justice system. 

After being charged with armed robbery and put on probation through the Springfield Drug Court, Michael's charges were amended to attempt to commit a crime. "I was all in," he shared about his commitment to the program. Was it easy... no, but I was driven, ambitious, and determined to accomplish my goals. I did not quit.” 

Through the MISSION-Springfield program, participants receive intensive case management, peer support, trauma-informed counseling, and care linkage and coordination to recovery and wraparound supports, including Medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), employment, and housing supports. 

Michelle shares that Michael has persevered through some extraordinary challenges. “As a participant in the program, Michael consistently showed determination to improve his quality of life, not only for himself but for his family and those around him. It is a privilege to mentor and guide Michael in pursuit of all his hopes, dreams, and professional goals as one of our newest Recovery Coaches” she said. 

Michelle was not only a huge support, but she was also Michael’s bridge to resources. “She was able to do many warm handoffs with me to resources in the community. Even if I had known about a resource, I would not have otherwise capitalized on many of the valuable opportunities. Having someone there who is knowledgeable and helped guide me through this recovery journey was by far the most helpful.” 

When asked how it feels to be able to help others through his job as a recovery coach, Micheal said, “It's amazing. Someone once told me that sometimes we may be going through certain situations not for ourselves but to be able to help someone else who is going through something similar. There have been many occasions where if I had not gone through a certain life experience myself, I would not have that connection with a recoveree.” 

Michael is determined to achieve his dreams, which include reuniting with his child, earning a college degree, owning a home, and starting his own business. “These are things that seem out of reach, but I know if I work hard enough, they are attainable.” 



For those who are in similar situations, Michael offers some advice: “Never give up. The only difference between me and a person who couldn’t make it is that I just didn’t give up. If I were to sit here and say it has been easy, I would be lying. This has been one of the most challenging endeavors I have ever had to overcome. I'd like to thank everyone I've met along the way who helped mold me to be the man I am today. And a special thanks to my family, Judge Charles Groce from the Springfield Drug Court, and last but not least, my recovery coach Michelle!"