Mike’s Story

Like many young people, Mike  faced some tough choices in his teenage years. He found himself caught up with the wrong crowd, and his life took an unexpected turn when he had to serve a prison sentence in British Columbia, far from his home in Winnipeg.

Upon his release, Mike was alone in a new place with no local support system. That’s when his parole officer told him about NOLA (No One Leaves Alone.) Mike decided to try it and was introduced to Christian, a NOLA Program Leader. The two began meeting regularly—going for walks, grabbing coffee, or catching a movie together. 

For Mike, these simple moments carried deep meaning.

“I was so excited—I hadn’t been to the movies in years,” he shared. “With only getting $28 a week right now, I can’t afford to go on my own.”

Mike is applying for full parole and is making plans to return home to Winnipeg to be with his family. One moment stands out as he reflects on his time with NOLA: “Having someone to talk to as support made a big difference for me,” he said. “They even gave me a Christmas gift from a volunteer I’ve never met. It was the only gift I got this Christmas, and it really meant a lot. I’m so thankful for the NOLA Program!”

*Name changed for privacy.