b'Josephs Story: Leaving Prison Behind for a Better Life Joseph is 67 years old, six months out of prison after his fourth stint there, and forging a new path for himself.He grew up surrounded by drugs, crime, and poverty, and was in and out of jail for much of his life. But while waiting release this time, he sensed that he was finally ready to do it differentlyso, although skeptical, he took the chance when the prison re-entry team asked him to participate in a new initiative, Riversides Behavioral Health Supports for Justice- Involved Individuals (BH-JI).Over a couple of phone calls with Riverside counselor Lewis they covered much about life, goals, and challenges. And then Lewis met Joseph at the prison gate to give him a ride, handed him an MBTA pass, and asked if he needed food, housing, or anything elseand checked in with him regularly over the next few months to make sure things stayed on track.Crucially, Lewis also helped handle issues with Josephs union so he could keep his membership and his job prospects open. In a fitting statement, Joseph said that he hopes never to see Lewis againor at least not in this context because he greatly values the bond they forged, but vows never to see the inside of a prison again! If you want to do the right thing and you want to stay out of prison, contact the re-entry team and ask about Riversides Behavioral Health Supports for Justice-Involved Individuals program. JosephBehavioral Health Supports for Justice-Involved Individuals provides vital links among individuals, support services, and the justice system, reaching people just before and after release or before someone in trouble is incarceratedcreating a model for healthier lives and communities.Note: Names changed to protect privacy. 5'