What is now known as JUMPSTART began in the mid-1990s as an idea among a group of believers who met Christ while serving life sentences. They were heartbroken to see so many people released, only to be returned to prison a short time later. Many of those released were simply unprepared for the challenges they faced upon their return to the community. This group of believers was convinced that before being released, people needed to be prepared by securing a stable place to live and work, arranging transportation, attaining life skills training, and embracing accountability. As a result, JUMPSTART was founded to help others and to break the cycle of recidivism.

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Over the years, the organization has experienced tremendous growth as lives have been restored from the inside out. God has orchestrated thousands of people and over a hundred churches and organizations to develop JUMPSTART into a healthy and thriving organization. Growth and opportunities continue today because God is at work restoring broken lives as many discover Christ and realize their future can be greater than their past.