Women in prison and in re-entry are among the most neglected members of our society – the very people Vincentians are called to serve. This past year, grants from the Walking with the Poor Ministry Fund have been awarded to help provide a mentoring program for women transitioning out of prison.
With your support, this new collaboration with the Center for Spirituality at Work helps to respond to the pressing needs of this population by fostering the development of decision-making and life skills. Originally established by Fr. Gary Mueller, C.M., Fr. Bob Schwane, C.M., and Fr. Mark Pranaitis, C.M., this work has flourished under the leadership of Dr. Vie Thorgen, executive director, and Fr. Tom Nelson, C.M., program spiritual director.
This work of the Vincentians, their lay collaborators and supporters like you is planting seeds of hope in the hearts of the women who are served.
Volunteer mentors receive training and ongoing support in their important coaching role with women who are incarcerated or have been recently released. The program encourages personal responsibility, stronger families, social engagement and leadership development.
Mentors and former offenders work together on public education programs and advocacy efforts. The impact of this program is demonstrated by the 92% of graduates who have re-entered the community successfully, as gainfully employed and contributing members of society.
This work of the Vincentians, their lay collaborators and supporters like you is planting seeds of hope in the hearts of the women who are served. Your generosity reaches the margins of our society – the lonely, the forgotten and the vulnerable. Like St. Vincent, we meet people where they are and serve with compassion those in need of God’s love.