History

This site is dedicated to the memories of Dianne Granlund, former Deputy Managing Director for Criminal Justice Population Management - City of Philadelphia, and Linda Mathers, former Special Projects Director - Philadelphia Adult Probation and Parole Department. We fondly remember their dedication, human compassion and wonderful sense of humor in developing and implementing the Forensic Intensive Recovery program. Without their leadership, knowledge and intense desire to make a difference in the lives of those suffering from addiction, mental illness and related criminal behavior patterns, this program would not have been as successful in helping people lead drug-free and crime-free lives. We are forever grateful to have had the privilege of their camaraderie and warm company.

The Forensic Intensive Recovery (FIR) Program began in November 1993 as a response to a federal consent decree that required the City of Philadelphia to reduce the inmate population by 250 persons. Former Deputy Managing Director, Dianne Granlund, coordinated a group of various city and private stakeholders to devise a program that would decrease the inmate population while simultaneously providing community-based substance abuse treatment for eligible inmates. In collaboration with legal and clinical administrators from the Philadelphia Prison System, District Attorney’s Office, Defender Association of Philadelphia, Philadelphia Adult Probation and Parole Department, The Office of Addiction Services, and several private treatment provider agencies, Ms. Granlund facilitated the creation of FIR.

The FIR program evaluation (1994 - 1995) revealed that those inmates who received at least six months of community-based substance abuse treatment were 66% less likely to be convicted of a new crime. Since that time the program has been enhanced with centralized case management services, specialty treatment provider agencies, vocational services, a state-of-the-art data management system, and more recently, local faith-based and community partnerships.

Through continuous state and city funding, the FIR program has been able to expand its array of services and participant capacity. We are constantly examining and enhancing the program to meet the needs of both participants and the City of Philadelphia. We are committed to saving the lives of those who suffer from addiction, mental illness and criminal recidivism while simultaneously providing safer communities. We hope that through this site you will find helpful information, as well as an understanding of the humanitarian approach taken by the City to meet the needs of its citizens.