Persons who drive while under the influence are operating outside of the boundaries of what society deems appropriate and acceptable. The Impact Weekend approaches drunk drivers in a direct, cognitive, confrontational method. MADD provides trained volunteers from their organization to present their Victims Impact Panel during each session. Turning Point Recovery Center contributes a secluded environment for the weekend and trained substance abuse counselors. The Otter Lake facility is a private independent living community which is conducive to learning.
Counselors provide assessments, education, and an orientation to treatment.
At regular intervals, case management and follow-up services are provided by the Oakland County Community Corrections Division to both the defendants and their families. For one year after completion of the weekend, trained university interns are responsible for conducting aftercare contacts and providing referrals to each participant and their family members. In addition to the above, another major key component of Impact Weekend is the cost. In lieu of daily jail costs paid by taxpayers, Impact Weekend holds the participant accountable. Since the commencement of the first weekend, Impact Weekend has continuously expanded, not only in the number of participants but also in resources.