Transforming Lives: Franklin Curlin’s Journey from Homelessness to Hope

Community support for individuals in recovery at Erie City Mission

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Community Resource Consultants Inc. (CRCI)

Community Resource Consultants Inc. (CRCI) is a Michigan-based organization specializing in trauma rehabilitation medical case management. With over 34 years of experience, CRCI is dedicated to empowering survivors of catastrophic auto accidents to regain control of their lives and achieve both physical and emotional well-being. Their team of Licensed Master Social Workers (LMSWs) and Registered Nurses (RNs) are experts in navigating the complexities of today’s healthcare system, ensuring that survivors receive the necessary services for their recovery and rehabilitation. CRCI’s core values include advocacy, people, knowledge, and dependability, reflecting their commitment to being leading advocates and facilitators of long-term collaborative care.

News Summary

At 60, Franklin Curlin has transformed his life and now works as a case manager at the Erie City Mission, helping others overcome addiction and homelessness. His life story reflects continuous dedication to recovery and community support, rooted in personal experience and a commitment to changing lives for the better.

Transforming Lives One Day at a Time: The Journey of Franklin Curlin

At 60 years old, Franklin Curlin has turned his life around in ways many can only dream of. Today, he’s making waves as a case manager at the Erie City Mission, a beacon of hope for those struggling with addiction and homelessness.

From Stagehand to Support

Curlin’s journey began way back in New Jersey, where he worked as a stagehand from 1986 to 2004. He found himself surrounded by the glitz and glamour of major productions, including the likes of “Phantom of the Opera” and “Sweeney Todd”. However, his personal life was a different story, as he battled with substance abuse that ultimately led him to seek help.

A Life-Changing Encounter

In 2003, everything changed for him when he met a woman who introduced him to the Erie City Mission. That fateful encounter opened the door to a new world of possibilities, and he enthusiastically began the New Life Program—a comprehensive residential recovery initiative designed specifically for men like him.

Completing this program 20 years ago was just the beginning of his transformation. Curlin wasn’t just a participant; he became a part of the mission, securing employment immediately after graduation. Starting as a supervisor at the men’s desk, he worked tirelessly and rose through the ranks, eventually settling into the role of case manager in 2024.

Guiding Others on the Path to Recovery

In his current role, Curlin oversees a caseload of 30 to 50 individuals, providing essential support and guidance to those in the New Life Program. He truly believes in the power of transformation through support and, more importantly, genuine kindness. Establishing warm relationships with his clients is key, as it allows him to tailor individual care plans that focus on their specific needs, including mental health and addiction challenges.

Curlin emphasizes the necessity of entering detox programs, advising individuals to stay long enough to truly learn valuable life skills and receive the support they need. His multitasking at the City Mission is no small feat, as he engages in daily tasks like monitoring public meals and facilitating activities like bowling, making the environment not just a place for recovery, but a community where people can thrive.

A Day in the Life

Every day for Curlin starts at a bright-and-early 4:30 a.m. He begins with morning meditation and prayer, centering himself for the day ahead. After a nourishing breakfast, he heads to work where he’ll meet with a solid 14 to 20 clients daily—each interaction filled with encouragement and understanding.

Curlin’s colleagues sing his praises, admiring his enormous heart. They note that he never turns away anyone who seeks help, showcasing his unwavering commitment to the mission and its clients. One of the most fulfilling aspects of his job is witnessing clients graduate from the New Life Program and successfully reintegrate into society. He knows all too well that recovery is a continuous journey, requiring relentless effort and dedication.

Heart Over Money

At the end of the day, Curlin passionately highlights that his role isn’t about financial compensation; it’s about serving others and making a genuine difference in their lives. His belief in love and passion as foundational elements of case management shines brightly in the work he does, reminding us all that every life is worth transforming and every person deserves a second chance.

As Franklin Curlin continues to guide others on their paths to recovery, he is not just changing their lives, but also reshaping the very fabric of the community around him. His story is a powerful reminder that with determination and support, anyone can turn their life around.