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4 Things You Might Not Know About KPEP

By now you’ve heard the name, but what is KPEP, and who is a good candidate for our programs?

The answers might surprise you. Learn more about us with these four facts, and contact a local office with questions about referring to KPEP:

  • Berrien – Program Manager Robyn Sherrick. EM: rsherrick@kpep.com PH: 269.876.5203
  • Calhoun – Program Manager Katie Rymer. EM: krymer@kpep.com PH: 269.282.7101
  • Kalamazoo – Program Manager Sara Burrus. EM: sburrus@kpep.com PH: 269.903.0511
  • Muskegon – Program Manager Tiffany Flaska. EM: tflasksa@kpep.com PH: 231.725.8160


Here’s what you should know:

  1. When is KPEP the Right Fit?

KPEP is often appropriate for probationers and parolees who need more structure than standard supervision provides, but do not require extended incarceration. Referrals are typically initiated by MDOC field agents, courts, Bureau of Prisons, or local federal partners. To meet their programming needs, KPEP staff develop an individualized client service plan for each resident using documentation from the courts, the referring agent, and a needs assessment.

  1. Sixteen Structured Programs

Across our four locations, KPEP offers eight residential programs, seven outpatient programs, and an eight-week hospitality vocational training program.

Residential Programs Include:

  • Community Residential Services (CRS 90-150 days)
  • CRS-Pre Trial Programming (available to clients who have been charged with a felony)
  • Work Release Referrals
  • Drug Court Referrals
  • Federal Residential Reentry Center Programming
  • Transitional Housing
  • Residential Sexual Abuse Prevention Program (RSAPP)
  • Base Housing

Pastor Hayes talks with a KPEP resident.Individuals referred to residential programs are assessed and offered a wide array of programming that may include substance use disorder workshops and treatment, life skills and employability skills classes, GED, 12-Step groups, cognitive behavioral therapy, sexual abuse prevention programming, vocational training and community service opportunities.

Outpatient Programs Include:

  • Anger Management
  • Domestic Violence Programming
  • Substance Use Disorder Treatment
  • Sexual Abuse Prevention Programming
  • Assessments
  1. Proven to Reduce Recidivism

Currently at 21%, Michigan’s 3-year recidivism rate has been on the decline since 2005 when it stood at 42%. Even more notable, KPEP reported a 1-year recidivism rate of only 10.8% this past year and a 3-year rate of 9%, under half of the state average. Graduates of KPEP achieve successful reintegration at more than twice the rate of others.

A Respected Alternative to Incarceration

KPEP was founded in 1980 as the Kalamazoo Probation Enhancement Program. What began as a pilot alternative to incarceration has evolved into a respected statewide model for structured, evidence-based supervision and programming. KPEP offers MDOC professionals and other referral sources a reliable, accredited alternative that blends structure, treatment, and skill development — helping individuals make measurable progress toward rehabilitation while maintaining community safety.  We work hand-in-hand with criminal justice and law enforcement leaders to create a path forward for those ready to embrace change, helping participants take responsibility, gain new skills, and work toward a successful return to their communities.