Testimonial Interview with current transitional participant, Joe Santana Joe Santana, a 77-year-old participant recently released from a 6-year prison sentence, understands the significance of living his life entirely guided by the whispers of direction from the Holy Spirit. Being born to a large family in Puerto Rico, him and his family picked up and moved to New York, where he spent a great deal of his childhood and early years. He spent his younger years mastering artistry under the grand trees of central park and soaking in time with his family. Eventually, he met his wife and they fell in love and created a beautiful family. He began working for multiple glass companies in order to support his wife and their life. While he describes how much he enjoyed this time, it was not as pure as it is now, because he did not know God. However, a pivotal moment in his life came when his wife told him that she wanted something new for their family. She wanted to move down South and experience the slowness of the Southern lifestyle. While Joe wasn't entirely on board, he loved his wife and was willing to follow wherever she felt called. So, they packed up their life and moved to South Carolina. This is when Joe's faith journey took off. He was never big on church and faith. He was a family man and devoted himself to loving his wife and providing for his family through hard work. However, that never included sitting in a pew on Sunday with his wife and listening to a sermon. Not because he didn't support his wife, but because he never felt called to attend church. He failed to find any tangible, true purpose in it. This all changed when he met up with his brother-in-law and he started to share the gospel with Joe. Joe exclaimed that there was something different about him. That you could just tell that he had this light and exuberance that he had never encountered before. Joe was attracted to that light and the story that her brother had to share. He didn't really know why, but he knew it was different. He wanted that difference in his life for himself. So, he began going to church with his wife and his life made a complete turnaround. Not because he wasn't content with his life before, but he encountered a newfound joy and peace that made his life even more beautiful. He quickly responded to an altar call hand-in-hand with his wife. That day he surrendered his life to Christ and never once looked back. He began looking to God in everything and for everything. His entire life revolved around how he could best serve his creator and master. His life was based on obedience out of pure joy and love for abiding in the Spirit. This is when he finally began to hear from God and respond in obedience. He described that soon after he became a true disciple of Christ, he heard the Spirit whisper that he should take on a leadership position. So, when the minister at his church asked him to become a deacon, he didn't think twice and accepted the position. A while after that, he was offered to preach a service at his church. While his flesh was feeding him lies that he wasn't equipped, he was checked by the Spirit who told him that he needed to take this step. So, he obeyed. Months after that, he felt the call to become a minister. So, he obeyed the push of the Spirit and became ordained. Joe delighted himself in completely abiding in the Spirit. He was so in tune with the Lord that he could clearly hear the voice of God guiding his every step and he never thought twice about accepting every invitation to grow in sanctification with God. However, around this time, chaos ensued for Joe and his family. A faulty accusation coupled with a broken system embodied by disparate access to legal representation resulted in Joe facing a 6 year prison sentence. But Joe never once was discouraged: He took heart, knowing the Lord was with him. He was dedicated to doing God's time, not the government's time. So, he took every opportunity that he had during his time in prison to remain faithful to the Lord, serve the Lord, and make disciples. He actively preached on Sunday's in the prison chapel and took every chance to minister and disciple to his fellow inmates. He never once neglected his calling during prison. He knew God had a purpose for all of it. This is what kept Joe motivated to wake up every single morning in his cold, dark cell without his wife and the beautiful life that he cherished with her. He may have been physically imprisoned, away from all of the blessings he loved, but he was not a prisoner of his own mind. They could not take his faith away. Even when Joe went up for parole three separate times and was disqualified each time, he never became discouraged because he truly and firmly believed that God's timing was perfect and purposeful. In between these parole hearings, he came across JUMPSTART and the call to participate in the program, so he completed the inside program with JUMPSTART and found a true community of believers that he could walk alongside in prison. He knew this was a family that God has called him to be a part of. When it came to deciding what his life would hold when he finally was granted parole, he prayed diligently about the next steps that he should take. Then it kept coming to him in a dream: JUMPSTART. That's when he knew God was telling him that he should continue on through JUMPSTART's transitional program. So, he listened and is now going on his second year in the program. He describes that he has found not just a roof over his head and resources to help him start anew, but a true family that believes and grows together. Joe has never before found people that will intentionally look out for him like the staff and other participants in the program. This is his tangible affirmation that this is where he is supposed to be. He doesn't know what life holds for him after he completes his time in the transitional program, but that has never once worried Joe. He will not be dismayed or anxious, for he is confident in God's timing and perfect plan. Since he completely finds his rest in Christ, he has all the joy in the world to remain patient and listen to God for where he should go. Joe's story is a miraculous reminder that if we abide in the Spirit and look for God, that we will find him everywhere. Wherever he leads, we shall go. Do not be dismayed, for he is always with us to the end of the age. A testimony like Joe's is only made possible through the help of our humble volunteers and donors who extend their generosity, so our participants faith can be brought to life. It is one of JUMPSTART's greatest joys to see the abundant resources that God has provided through volunteers and donors in order for their lives to be changed according to God's divine will. Would you consider being a volunteer or donor today? Just like Joe, prayer and abiding in the Lord will lead you to what God has for you. Is serving at JUMPSTART a part of God's plan for your life? If so, we would love nothing more than to partner with you. Together, we can assist our brothers and sisters in Christ to lean into the Holy Spirit's work to transform participants into a people who love the Lord and diligently respond to His call for their lives.

How Eurolink is Supporting Second Chances Through Social Enterprises Craig Pennland, CEO of Eurolink ® // Building a Legacy of Faith Craig Pennland is no stranger to building things that last. For 25 years, he’s led Eurolink Fastener Supply Service in Greer, South Carolina, supplying metric nuts, bolts, and screws across North America. Beyond his role as President and CEO, Craig is a husband of 35 years, a father, and a man of faith. His story reveals how God has used both business and generosity to impact lives far beyond the walls of his company. Craig’s connection to JUMPSTART SC began in the living room of a friend. Invited to hear about a faith-based nonprofit, Craig and his wife quickly recognized a mission that resonated deeply with their values. “I didn’t think twice about having men who were getting a second chance come work at my home or business,” Craig recalls. “If they were part of JUMPSTART SC, I knew they’d already proven their commitment.” What began as landscaping projects around his house and cabin soon grew into something much bigger — JUMPSTART SC played a vital role in helping landscape Eurolink’s new headquarters. For Craig, the partnership was never about “just” landscaping. It was about trust, professionalism, and treating people with dignity. “I went in intentionally not treating them differently than any other contractor,” he explains. “I offered respect, a bottle of water on a hot day — and in return, I was blown away by their professionalism and gratitude.” That respect turned business transactions into personal relationships. Weekly interactions at Eurolink led to familiar faces at JUMPSTART SC game nights, deepening his connection with the men rebuilding their lives in the transitional program. // Creating a Culture of Giving Craig’s faith also shapes the way he runs his company. Inspired by the Hobby Lobby family’s example of corporate tithing, Craig began setting aside a percentage of Eurolink’s profits — matching what he gave employees in bonuses with gifts to the community. To keep generosity from being “just Craig’s decisions,” he launched an internal system of employees who research and select nonprofits to support. Each year, they decide together where Eurolink will give, ensuring the whole company is invested in the mission. “It’s not just about me writing a check,” Craig says. “It’s about the team choosing causes that matter to them." He shared that one of the things he values most about JUMPSTART SC is its social enterprises — JUMPSTART Landscaping and JUMPSTART Catering & Events . By using these services for needs he already has, he isn’t just checking off a business task. He’s also investing in a ministry that’s directly impacting our community for the better. When asked why he invests time, money, and trust in JUMPSTART SC, Craig doesn’t hesitate: “Second chances. None of us deserves them, but God gives them anyway. If He offers us a second chance, who am I not to do the same for others?” Craig believes the reason JUMPSTART SC’s model works is that it is rooted in faith. “Society will let people down. God won’t. And when men and women put Him first, the results are undeniable.” // An Invitation to Other Leaders To fellow business leaders, Craig offers a challenge: “God has put you in a unique position to lead a company. Your resources aren’t just for you; they’re to bring Him glory. When you partner with JUMPSTART SC, you’ll get back far more than you invest. And you can do more than write a check. You can give people meaningful work that restores dignity.” // Gratitude That Overflows Reflecting on all God has done, Craig’s gratitude runs deep — for his wife of 35 years, his sons, his faithful staff, and his company that has become a testimony in an industry where faith is rare. “God never said life would be perfect,” Craig shares. “But He’s been faithful every step." Craig’s story is a reminder that business can be more than transactions. It can be a ministry, a testimony, and a way to build God’s kingdom here and now. By partnering with JUMPSTART SC, he has seen firsthand how faith and opportunity can transform lives, including his own. Watch the FULL Video Interview: Thank you to Craig Penland and the Eurolink Team for supporting us in our mission to serve our community by breaking the cycle of recidivism in South Carolina!

How Wateree Correctional Facility Is Cultivating Hope and Hard Skills Through Brilliant Stewardship and Resourcefulness Warden Donald Beckwith at Wateree Correctional Facility Donald Beckwith serves as the warden of Wateree Correctional Institution, a medium, level 2 security facility for incarcerated men in South Carolina. Established in the 1890s, Wateree is the oldest prison in the state and carries a rich legacy of offering second chances through its distinctive agricultural and farming programs. Now in his 17th year at Wateree, Warden Beckwith shares that he has no desire to serve anywhere else. His deep passion for reducing recidivism, crime, and addiction through agriculture and farming, while also equipping individuals with marketable job skills for future success, aligns seamlessly with the mission of the South Carolina Department of Corrections. Warden Beckwith embodies what it means to lead with intention and by example. He lives on the farm as he teaches individuals to manage. His life reflects his belief in finding joy and purpose through cultivating God’s simple gifts. He embraces the toil required to sustain these blessings, modeling for the inmates a life of humility, stewardship, and dedication. At the heart of his leadership is a belief that hands-on, hard work is the most effective way to teach his men. Through agricultural training, he aims not only to provide inmates with tools for future employment but also to help them encounter a path to success through the land and its resources. He hopes that each man is inspired by the fruits of his labor, realizing that with faith and hard work, a future full of promise is possible.   During our visit, Warden Beckwith led members of the JUMPSTART SC team through a comprehensive tour of the facility. He showcased the various programs, services, and expansive farmland, illustrating how each component works together to fulfill the prison’s mission: preparing men to reenter society equipped for success, rather than return to a cycle of incarceration.   Overview of the Wateree Prison Farm   The South Carolina Department of Corrections (SCDC) owns 10,000 acres of farmland, with 7,000 of those located on the grounds of Wateree Correctional Institution. This land plays a vital role in SCDC’s Agriculture and Food Services Division, as the crops and dairy products produced here help meet the nutritional needs of all 21 state prisons. Operated by Wateree inmates under the guidance of trained staff, the land primarily functions as a row crop and dairy farm. Any surplus is sold to surrounding communities, with the revenue reinvested into the agricultural program to fund operations and work toward the goal of complete self-sustainability.  The overarching goal of this initiative is to maximize harvests and minimize food costs for the agency. By producing food internally, the program significantly reduces expenses for the department and state taxpayers.   Let’s take a closer look at the programs run by Wateree Correctional and how each inmate plays a key role in its sustainability, while gaining essential life and job skills to support a successful, fulfilling life beyond incarceration.   Click each program title below to learn more: Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation   The Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF) stands out as one of Wateree Correctional Institution’s most impactful programs. Wateree is one of only eight facilities nationwide to offer this unique initiative, which pairs inmate rehabilitation with horse rescue. The program began in 2004 after former Warden John Carmichael read a New York Times article about a similar initiative at an institution in New York. Inspired by the dual benefits for both inmates and retired racehorses, he set out to bring the program to South Carolina.   Knowing the state would likely not fund the effort, former Warden Carmichael raised private donations to cover startup costs. With enough funding secured, TRF signed a lease for the stables, and Wateree welcomed its first herd of retired racehorses in 2004. Since then, the program has been fully sustained through donations.    For over 20 years, the TRF has sent retired racehorses in desperate need of rehabilitation down to the Seabiscuit Stables at Wateree Correctional. Inmates, selected for their interest and clean disciplinary record, care for and train the horses until they are adopted. Currently, 33 retired racehorses live at the facility under the attentive care of these inmate handlers.   The heart of this program lies in the power of its purpose. Former Warden Carmichael recognized the potential for mutual gain between the inmates and the horses. Today, Warden Beckwith attests to the deep impact this partnership has had on the collective morale of Wateree.   On the surface, the program gives retired racehorses a second chance at life. However, Warden Beckwith shares that the deeper value lies in the emotional connection forged between horse and handler. The racehorses and the inmates often share a very similar story. They both often come from backgrounds marked by pain, rejection, or trauma. This shared sense of brokenness creates a space for healing. It’s a great way to teach inmates with a tattered past to understand the reciprocity of love and emotions. As horses respond to human emotions and behavior, inmates learn emotional regulation, patience, empathy, and problem solving, which are essential skills for healthy relationships and personal growth.   These lessons extend beyond the prison walls. Through hands-on labor and professional guidance from TRF staff and local trainers, inmates learn how to properly care for horses. Many go on to earn Groom Elite Certifications, preparing them for high-paying jobs in the equine industry after release.    Ultimately, this program offers more than rehabilitation for retired racehorses, it offers incarcerated men a second chance to experience responsibility, connection, and compassion. By teaching emotional intelligence and practical skills, it equips them for success both in prison and beyond.   Dairy Farm / Wateree Dairy Training School Wateree Correctional also operates an extensive dairy farm, complete with a state-of-the-art training program. The farm is home to hundreds of cows in its various pastures that are cared for by approved inmates who are eager to spend their time working outside the dorms. The dairy farm produces a large volume of milk, which is processed, packaged, and distributed by inmates to all of the prison facilities in South Carolina in order to meet their nutritional needs. This in-house operation eliminates the need for external milk suppliers, resulting in significant cost savings for SCDC and South Carolina taxpayers.    What makes the program even more impactful is that Director of Agriculture, Rick Doran, and PUSD Lead Teacher, A. Desai, expanded it into a vocational training opportunity. Inmates with an interest in agriculture can enroll in the Water ee Dairy Training School, where they train under the dairy manager and learn skills such as milking, processing, animal health, and cattle breeding. The goal is to equip inmates with marketable skills they can use after release in a high-demand job market.     Warden Beckwith and Rick Doran are committed to creating meaningful work opportunities for incarcerated individuals, work that not only supports institutional needs but also prepares inmates for a successful reentry. Today, the dairy program stands as an official vocational education initiative that offers both rehabilitation and hands-on workforce training.  Row Cropping In addition to its dairy operations, Wateree uses its remaining agricultural land for row crops such as corn, wheat, soybeans, and various vegetables. Similar to the dairy farm, these row crops are cultivated by inmates, producing substantial yields that are processed into grits, cornmeal, and other food products. These items are either distributed to the institutions throughout the state for inmate consumption or used to feed the livestock on the farm. Inmates play a key role in this process, including operating the on-site gristmill where corn is ground into grits and cornmeal. The finished products are then packaged and distributed to all South Carolina correctional facilities, helping meet the dietary needs of the state’s incarcerated population.   T he Wateree Farm staff takes pride in providing healthy, sustainably grown food to every institution in the state. In th e same model as the dairy farm, any surplus is sold to nearby communities, with proceeds being reinvested into Wateree’s agricultural programs to support long-term sustainability.   Beyond its practical benefits, the row cropping initiative also serves a rehabilitative purpose. Warden Beckwith emphasizes the value of giving inmates the chance to leave their dorms and spend time outdoors, engaging in communion with nature and fellow inmates. The program also offers hands-on training in farming and heavy equipment operation and maintenance, skills that are lucrative and highly transferable to careers in horticulture, agriculture, and machinery. Under the guidance of experienced supervisors, inmates learn the discipline and reward of hard work.  For Warden Beckwith, this initiative fulfills a larger mission: to ensure that when inmates are released, they’re not starting from scratch. Instead, they leave with real-world experience, practical skills, and a foundation on which to build a better future.  Wastewater Treatment Plant & Vocational Training Programs Like all correctional facilities in South Carolina, Wateree Correctional is required to treat its wastewater to meet environmental standards . However, Wastewater Management Supervisor Kevin Kirkpatrick has turned this requirement into an opportunity to train inmates in a high-demand, high-paying field. By gaining hands-on experience in wastewater treatment, inmates significantly improve their job prospects upon release.   Specifically, an inmate at Wateree Correctional recently became the first in SCDC to earn a Class B wastewater treatment certification, which exemplifies the mastery of skills that can be acquired through the program. This achi evement reflects SCDC’s commitment to creating dual-impact initiatives that not only serve the facility’s operational needs but also equip inmates with meaningful vocational training for life after incarceration.   Beyond wastewater treatment, Wateree offers additional trade programs in welding, carpentry, and mechanics. Inmates interested in carpentry are trained to operate the on-site sawmill, processing timber from prison land into usable lumber for construction and repairs. The facility also includes a welding shop, mechanic shop, farm maintenance shop, and hammer mill, with each providing hands-on training under the supervision of skilled staff that can be translated into a desirable trade.   Co mmunity Outreach Initiatives Warden Beckwith has thoughtfully utilized parts of the land owned by SCDC to create outreach opportunities that connect the surrounding community to the work being done at Wateree Correctional. His goal is to teach children the same values and skills he instills in his inmates, specifically how to live off the land and care for the simple gifts that God has provided through nature.   Wateree Farm Supervisor, Thomas Lindler, plants and maintains a large sunflower field that is leveraged as a dove field during the fall. This provides a space for children and their parents to visit Wateree, engage with staff, and participate in meaningful outdoor activities. It also serves as a hands-on learning experience, teaching youth about stewardship, agriculture, marksmanship, safety, and patience.     Another outreach effort close to Warden Beckwith’s heart is the development of on-site fishing ponds. Through a partnership with the Department of Natural Resources, the ponds are stocked free of charge and used for annual visits from children living in orphanages across the state. For many of these children, it’s a rare opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, and the Warden uses this time to share love, encouragement, and the Gospel with them.   As a final personal touch, Warden Beckwith planted a fruit orchard on the grounds as a tribute to his dedicated staff, those who work tirelessly each day to ensure Wateree’s land and operations run smoothly and effectively.   Providing Acres of Opportunity  for Change These initiatives not only provide enriching experiences for the community but also allow local stakeholders to personally witness how SCDC land is being used to care for both inmates and the broader community.   “We take a holistic approach. None of what we produce has any harsh pesticides. We don’t try to manipulate nature; we are just utilizing all that God gives us." This captivating statement from Warden Beckwith captures the heart of his mission. SCDC and Wateree Correctional Institution were entrusted with thousands of acres of land and could have taken any route they desired to use it. Instead of exploiting it for their own benefit, Warden Beckwith took it as an opportunity to develop various, expansive agricultural initiatives that would serve the needs of SCDC and provide inmates with multiple skillsets required for high-demand, high-paying jobs. Warden Beckwith is committed to using his time, energy, and resources to provide inmates with opportunity, because he knows that CHANGE is possible for these inmates! At JUMPSTART SC, our mission aligns closely with Warden Beckwith’s to help inmates believe that their future can be brighter than their past when they walk in the light of the Lord. It’s encouraging to see this shared vision reflected in the leadership at Wateree. While our approaches may differ, we are united in our goal: to equip incarcerated men with the faith, hope, and skills they need to break the cycle of incarceration and reenter society with purpose.  Thank you to all those who made this trip possible, including Warden Beckwith, Chrysti Shain, and Joseph Cashion. Thank you for partnering with us to offer second-chance opportunities to those incarcerated in South Carolina. You are transforming lives! 💸 Every dollar you give fuels our 360-degree program… serving not only Wateree, BUT 19 out of 22 prisons across South Carolina! Would you consider sponsoring someone on their journey to make their future greater than their past in Christ? Click the link below!

⛓️‍💥 How JUMPSTART SC is Ending Recidivism in Your Backyard The Hard Truth: What Reentry Really Looks Like... 1 out of every 2 families in the US has a loved one who has been incarcerated, battled with addiction, or been significantly impacted by the criminal justice system. Over 15,000 people are currently incarcerated in South Carolina. 85% are set to be released from prison in the next 5 years. Tragically, it is projected that 18% of those released will return to prison. The current cost to house one inmate in a state institution for one year is $40,429 , which is directly funded by the taxpayers of South Carolina. If 18% of those released return to prison, the financial burden on taxpayers compounds quickly. For those who don’t directly go back to prison, 10% are immediately homeless after release, and a staggering 25% by the 30-day mark. The numbers don’t lie – but they don’t tell the whole story either. Each number represents a story of real people, real mothers, real sons, real friends, real families, and real struggles – with lives forever changed by the justice system. The Reality of Life After Prison with No Support But first, let’s take a deep dive into the hard reality of what it looks like to reenter society after being released from prison.   You’ve hit your release date. The only thing you carry out of prison is the clothes on your back and the bus ticket handed to you at the door. Other than that, all you have is you. Next thing you know, you’re being put on a bus and shipped to a bus or train station, a halfway house, or the city that you used to live in, but isn’t home anymore. You eventually arrive at a bus stop in the city where you were previously convicted, and they dump you out on the side of the street. No welcome. No support. Just the rough concrete beneath your feet and uncertainty stretching out in every direction. Now what? You’re hungry. You haven’t eaten since the last perfunctory meal you had in prison. You have no money to your name to buy food or water. You have nowhere to sleep. No hotel or motel will take you in without an ID, but it’s not like you could afford one anyway. A halfway house? Maybe. But those require a process and time to get approved and still charge a fee that you have no way of covering. So, even if you did qualify, you wouldn’t be staying there tonight. So, you walk. You wander around the city scouring for a somewhat safe place to rest your head. Somewhere where you won’t be beaten, mocked, taken advantage of, or run off. After hours of searching, you find a shady tree to lay under in a local park, hoping this can be the place where you make it through the night. As the time ticks by, your mind begins to race with thoughts about what your next step is. You need food. You need shelter. But to do any of that, you need a job. But you don’t have a valid ID, form of birth certificate, driver’s license, or social security card to prove you are who you say you are. No one will hire you without that and it’s not like you can get one anyways. You have no access to a computer to order one online. No mailing address for it to be ordered to. No transportation to get to a government office. And no money to pay the fees if you even could. Even if you somehow acquire all the documents that you need, you’re still facing the stigma of a criminal record. Employers don’t want to take a chance on you, especially if there’s no one around to vouch for you. You’re labeled a risk, a liability, not worth the effort. And say, by some miracle, someone does offer you minimum wage. That’s still not enough to afford a safe, stable place to live. And most landlords won’t rent to someone with a felony anyway, you’re a risk they’re not willing to take. You think about calling someone. A friend. A relative. But the truth is, most of them stopped answering a long time ago. You burned so many bridges in your past life with your long list of regrets and mistakes, so they wrote you off when you were locked up. To them, they’re not wasting their time on someone who they think will never change. And slowly, but surely, the weight of it all sinks in: No money. No job. No ID. No shelter. No support. No options. Nothing. Desperate and starving, you walk into a gas station and steal a sandwich, secretly hoping that you get caught. Because in prison, you’ll have food, a roof over your head, and at least someone else to talk to. And just like that, you’re back inside. Another number. Another statistic. In South Carolina, over 15,000 people are currently behind bars. In the next five years, 85% of them will be released: 18%  are expected to return to prison 10%  will be homeless within 24 hours 25%  will be without housing in just 30 days The cost to house one person in prison for a year is $40,429 , paid by South Carolina taxpayers But these aren't just numbers. They're names. They’re fathers, daughters, sons, and mothers. Individuals made in God’s image who are desperate for a second chance. Hopeless Ends Where JUMPSTART SC begins... JUMPSTART SC was developed to create a 360 approach that would address each hindrance that the formerly incarcerated face the moment they are released. We knew our program wouldn’t be successful unless we addressed all of the areas that incline the formerly incarcerated to reoffend, because one area missed is one step closer to recidivism. Our 2025 Recidivism data shows that our recidivism rate is 7X BETTER than the national average! The primary inclinations to reoffend include homelessness, unemployment, poverty, lack of support, and trauma, which is further compounded by little to no access to housing, healthcare, or an ID. Furthermore, we knew that 65% of those released are parents and 56% didn’t even graduate from high school, which informs problems of lack of education and family division. From this precise overview, we created a roadmap of services and support that align directly with our mission here at JUMPSTART SC: help incarcerated men and women discover and live out God’s purpose for their lives. To fulfill our mission, we designed at least 10 different services of support, in order to show the formerly incarcerated that through the Lord’s grace and the helping hands of his servants, there is a pathway forward to success and reentry. Homelessness  👉 Access to affordable, safe housing No access to healthcare   👉 Access to physical, mental, and dental healthcare No support   👉 Individual case management, individual mentoring, community engagement, access to recovery programs, recreational activities No finances  👉 Instruction on financial literacy, assistance in managing a checking and savings account, assistance in building credit, and budgetary guidance to successfully pay all expenses Lack of identification   👉 Individual case management within a participant's first 30 days to acquire all necessary forms of identification Unemployment   👉 Individual case management with the purpose of vouching for participants' skills and willingness to be a productive worker, assistance with resume building, necessary job and skills training, permanent and meaningful employment No transportation   👉 Transportation to employment, healthcare, and stores, budgetary assistance with the purpose of purchasing your own personal vehicle OVERALL ACCESS TO SPIRITUAL GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES AND STRONG SPIRITUAL COMMUNITY THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE PROCESS: Discipleship Worship and Fellowship Responsibility and Accountability Christ-Centered Daily Habits Grace and Structure Leadership Training Service Opportunities Guidance in Finding a Home Church // THIS FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND COMMUNITY IN SPARTANBURG, SC IS ONLY SUCCESSFUL BECAUSE THE GOSPEL REMAINS AT THE CENTER OF EVERY SERVICE, EVERY ACT OF SUPPORT, AND EVERY EXTENSION OF GRACE. Those who stay 90+ days in the transitional phase of the program yield a 99.7% success rate, meaning they have nearly a 100% chance of not returning to prison and being able to transition back into society successfully. What We Provide: 🛏 Safe Housing  — transitional homes designed for safety, stability, and dignity 🪪 Identification Help  — assistance with an ID, birth certificate, and Social Security card 🩺 Healthcare Access  — including physical, mental, and dental care 💼 Employment Support  — resume help, job training, and advocacy with employers 💰 Financial Coaching  — budgeting, credit building, savings plans 🚗 Transportation  — rides to work, appointments, and help with budgeting for a vehicle 🕊 Spiritual Growth  — discipleship, community, and church connection Every service is built on a Gospel foundation. True freedom doesn’t just come from walking out of prison. It comes from walking into a new life with Christ. Transformation You Can Believe In 96% of JUMPSTART inside graduates do not return to prison Graduates who complete the transitional program have a 99.7% success rate Participants reenter society as employed, stable, and disciplined individuals Generations are being restored, one life at a time The Ripple Effect of Restoration: 🌱 Families Reunited 🛡 Safer Communities 💵 Lower Taxpayer Burden 📈 Stronger Local Economies JUMPSTART is not just reducing recidivism. We are rebuilding lives, healing families, and strengthening South Carolina from the inside out. Become a Part of Our Fight Against Recidivism ✨ Pray  — for those still inside and those walking in freedom ✨ Volunteer  — become a mentor, prayer partner, or teacher ✨ Visit  — tour Restoration Village or the Indigo Hope Center ✨ Give  — your generosity fuels transformation Without Change, Nothing Changes. Together, we are building something that restores HOPE . With your help, we can finish the village, restore lives, and create a future where no one is defined by their past. Spread the word! 👉 https://www.jumpstartvision.org/south-carolina

How Outside Program Volunteer, Danielle Scott, Is Making a Difference Danielle Scott, Grace Church Member at Restoration Village 🎨 It’s not about pencils or paper. It’s about presence. Each of us who works in the building has come to know the sound of the soft sketching and small talk that echos in the building on any given Tuesday morning. Danielle shows up with a few art supplies and a heart willing to serve our participants each week. In a quiet room inside the Indigo Hope Center, a group of men gather to draw. There’s no spotlight. No stage. Just a simple lesson. It often ends with a rustle of papers, a laugh about how “This isn’t anyone’s future career,” and a cheerful goodbye. From the outside, it may seem like an insignificant blip in the week. If you're not paying attention you might almost miss it: But for most of those men, it’s more than art. Because the enemy is loud and he isn't afraid to shout when he's losing — "You can’t start over." "Society doesn’t give second chances." "You’ll always be who you were." Yet, in the stillness of this classroom on a Tuesday morning God whispers: “You are not who you were, and she sees it too.” You might ask: What does an art class have to do with ministry? For us, it's the seemingly "small" care that restores those we serve best. Men and women burdened by their past, this kind of care speaks louder than words. A home decorated with care, a hot meal after a long shift, a text of encouragement from a mentor, or a Tuesday morning art class. It reminds them they are seen, loved, and chosen in the little things . It's the concept of Matthew 6:28–29 lived out: "And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.” If you can feel the love of God through my people in these small, seemingly insignificant ways, how can you not trust that I will carry you through these seasons of transition? So, what does an art class have to do with ministry? Everything. God is NOT passive about His glory. He is actively calling us to use our gifts to serve others. Are you fulfilling this calling? Everyone in the body of Christ has a gift and talent to offer. It may or may not be here, but serve where God is calling YOU today! "I just instantly felt God say, 'Oh you're doing that.' " Danielle shares about how God connected her to JUMPSTART. Ask God prayerfully if He is moving you to serve. When you delay God's calling in your life, you rob yourself of the blessings He has in store. Who knows if God is calling YOU for such a time as this? If you feel you have a heart for what we are doing here, we would love for you to get involved in how God is moving you! We always need more volunteers to reach those who haven't heard, to mentor those who have decided to follow Jesus, and to walk alongside those taking the next step in a future that is greater than their past! How do I take the next step to serve at JUMPSTART? Click the link below to learn more about our volunteer opportunities or to fill out the form on this same link to get connected with a team member: https://www.jumpstartvision.org/get-involved-south-carolina

Testimonial Interview with current transitional participant, Tiffany Martin Finding Belonging in Christ: The Story of Tiffany Martin Belonging is something that every human craves. A place to call home. A people to call your family. True connection to run to when things get tough. However, where you find your sense of belonging can change the course of your life. Whether that is in the things of this world or in Christ. This characterizes Tiffany's story: from finding temporary belonging in the broken, conditional attachments of this world to discovering everlasting, unconditional belonging in the family of Christ. Tiffany was born into a toxic family environment. Substances wreaked havoc on her parents lives and disrupted any sort of normality that could be achieved in their relationship. As a teenage girl, she desperately hoped for the love that she gave her parents to be reciprocated, but because of the deep, strong roots of their addiction, it was always conditional on what she could give them in return. Therefore, she went scouring the most enticing paths that the world could offer to find some sense of belonging that filled the void that the lack of parental acceptance left in her life. This led to getting into multiple toxic, abusive relationships with men who based their love on a give-and-take attachment that would never survive the hardships this world can offer. Eventually, children were born into this mix, which further complicated their relationship and led to exceptionally more violence and contempt. While she knew that this couldn't be the end all be all for her life and what she wanted for her children, it took everything for her to make the push to leave. Despite the abuse, she still found belonging because it was all that she knew. During this time, Tiffany became heavily involved in gang activity, partly as a result of her own prevailing addictions, but also because of the nature of how gangs operate: as a family that always has one another's back. This is what truly appealed to Tiffany. She felt that this association would finally grant her the belonging and care she had been diligently searching for since a child. While on the surface it felt like she finally found what she was longing for, it was essentially temporary. Ultimately, her addiction and gang association resulted in three periods of incarceration, severed relationships with her children and other family, and a spiritual battle that would finally change her definition of belonging forever. Coming into her first period of incarceration, she describes that she knew of God, but never truly tried to integrate Him into her life. Church hurt dwelled in her heart from the times that she tried to open up to the church about struggles in her family life. She never felt that they were willing to come to her side. So, when a few older ladies came to visit the county jail where she spent her first sentence, she was reluctant to see them as individuals who would also have her back. To her surprise, these ladies showed her what it was like to feel the love of God again. This restored her image of God that was once broken by her prior life and disheartening church experiences. Therefore, when she entered the world again after her first sentence, she looked to God as her help and stayed sober for a year and a half, while making an effort to go to church and experience a true relationship with Christ. However, with no one to truly disciple her along her new path, she quickly fell back into old habits when the hardships of her old life began to rise to the surface again. It was nearly impossible for her to tread through the swarming waters of her past habits and toxic familial relationships without a godly community to be willing to tread with her. Once again, she was back in prison and was confused as to how she kept continuing to fall even though she wanted the exact opposite for her life. In this confusion and hardship, she turned to God for the answers and for closure. During her second period of incarceration, she read the Bible cover to cover ten times. Diligently searching for answers form the divine creator, she cultivated a relationship with Christ along the way, which allowed her to persevere through this second sentence. Nonetheless, when she was released and returned home, she still did not have a godly community to come beside her and help her from sinking back into the addictions of her old life. She became entrenched in addiction once again, but this time it was different. She knew it wasn't what God had for her. She knew her belonging was found elsewhere and that this would not be her identity and future. She knew this for herself and she preached it to the people in the streets who were lost and deeply entrenched in addiction alongside her. While the strongholds of addiction may have consumed her body, it did not have a hold on her heart, as it was with God. So, when she returned to prison for the third time, she used that as an opportunity to jump all in with God. She got involved with JUMPSTART on the inside and completed the inside program along with the leadership program. She describes, " It was a God thing that I was able to get into the program, but I knew that this is where God wanted me from the beginning.". To truly and radically change her life, she applied for the transitional program. Tiffany knew that if she went back home, she would end up in the swarming waters of her addiction and therefore back in prison. She knew it was time to finally let someone help her. " I knew if I wanted to be successful and make a change in my life, then I finally had to let somebody help me." This is when she finally embodied the fulfilling belonging she had been searching for her entire life. She embraced her identity in Christ and was all the more strengthened by the community of like-minded believers that she found through JUMPSTART. She describes how much of a blessing it is to be surrounded by individuals who have a desire to talk about God as much as she does; who are wholeheartedly focused on God and restoring their life. It has all the more strengthened her faith, motivation, and desires. She no longer has the desire to run back to addiction or old habits. She now has accountability through friendship and belonging through Christ and pure community. This is the mission of Jumpstart: to show individuals that their belonging isn't found in the temporary, conditional things of this world, but through the transformative, unconditional love of Christ that can be made all the more fulfilling through community. Watch the full testimonial video below as Tiffany Martin shares about finding belonging her in Christ: Finding Belonging in Christ: The Story of Tiffany Martin

There are some choices that Sam has made in his past that still affect him today. Even in light of the truth of God’s abundant grace and forgiveness, sin’s consequences still linger in our broken world.   But through it all, Sam has learned something deeper: pain is not useless.   It prompts an awareness that a change needs to be made—a call to action.   It provides opportunity for growth and development if we are willing to let God into that circumstance.   God never wastes pain.   The Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son. (Hebrews 12:6, NIV)   Sam used to think punishment meant rejection, but he later came to understand that God disciplines those He loves—not to destroy, but to restore. Being able to adjust our mindset through His providential wisdom changes everything.      He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. (Psalm 147:3, NIV) Sam shares, “When I finally gave Him my guilt— the shame, the embarrassment, the regret—I was amazed at how He instead turned it into boldness for Him.”  God didn’t only forgive him, but picked up the broken pieces to build something new in him. Those moments that Sam hated from his past, that once defined him, the Lord began to turn into worship and glorification through healing.   “My heartache gave way to growth I never saw coming.” Sam says.    Still, he admits that patience in God’s refinement is not always easy, and oftentimes has led him to return to feelings of shame and unworthiness of grace.   God challenged him in this as he was reminded in prison that God would sail the boat as long as he was willing to row; that if he trusted Him, God would be faithful to fulfill His promises.   “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.”  (Proverbs 16:3, ESV) For the past two years, JUMPSTART has provided Sam with transportation and housing. At first, he was hesitant to allow God to take care of him in this manner, but knew he needed to stay humble, with open hands to receive whatever God had planned for him.  Sam has stewarded his limited finances in various ways, such as purchasing a brand new townhouse.  He openly shares that his current earnings have not put him in the most reasonable position to cover housing expenses, but God has provided by putting generous people in his path who have stepped in and helped.    “Sure, I know how people want to hear how [God] has already provided these and it is a happy ending, but… life is about struggle and trusting in God with our uncertainties.”   God’s timing is better than ours. He knows our needs and will meet them in the ways in which He chooses, not us.   If we keep rowing, God will keep steering.  Long term, Sam aims to provide additional housing for JUMPSTART participants who are ready to graduate from the program and take their first steps in figuring out the path God has set before them. One of the main reasons he bought a house even when it didn’t appear to make much financial sense was to bless others and outwardly display his trust in the Lord, to answer the Bible’s calling to bear one another’s burdens.   “I want to be a part of what God’s doing in their lives, just like others were a part of what He’s done in mine.”  What it comes down to is that, on his own, Sam believes he should not own a house.   “But God.”   Those two words have proven to be all the difference in the world to him.   “I am reliant on God,” he says, “and that is exactly where I want to be.”  “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”  (2 Corinthians 12:9, NIV)   “And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”  (Philippians 4:19, ESV)

Gwendolyn “Gwen” Bright started her career of public service in the 1970s with South Carolina’s Department of Disabilities and Special Needs. From the 1980s onward, she worked in both the Department of Probation, Parole, and Pardon Services and the Department of Corrections where she oversaw inmate programs until her retirement in 2020.     She was also appointed by former Governor Nikki Haley to serve as a board member for South Carolina’s Board for Technical and Comprehensive Education, a post she held for twelve years. Her introduction to JUMPSTART happened while serving on the Parole Board, and she joined our board out of her strong belief in second chances.    “The most rewarding aspect of volunteering with JUMPSTART is watching people putting in the work and making positive changes happen in their lives … When we pave the way for inmate transitional success, we are investing in our families and our communities.”    On top of her distinguished career, Gwen holds a master’s degree in criminal justice from the University of South Carolina, spent twenty years as a volunteer Guardian ad Litem for CASA, and has been an adjunct professor for South Carolina State. She lives in Columbia, working part-time as a substitute elementary teacher and spending time with her grown daughter, Jessica.

Have you ever felt so broken that you wondered if anything good could come from your situation? Have you ever thought you’d gone too far for God’s grace to reach you? Had a family member or friend you thought were too broken to be restored?    Will’s story reminds us that no matter how dark circumstances may seem, there’s always hope.    At the Bottom, Angry and Alone    When Will first encountered JUMPSTART, he felt trapped by grief, regret, and loneliness. Sitting in a prison cell, he carried deep anger toward God after his mother unexpectedly passed away. He described his emotional state openly:    “I was really angry, and I just didn’t understand… I turned my back on God for a short time.”    In his pain, Will felt abandoned, not just by family or friends, but by God Himself. He struggled to envision any future worth living. How could his life recover after so much loss and failure?    Maybe you’ve felt something similar. Maybe you’ve carried wounds or guilt that seemed impossible to overcome.    Encountering Grace Unexpectedly    Will joined JUMPSTART for a practical reason: to secure a place to live upon release. But God had greater plans. Through a supportive community and relationships built on unconditional love, Will encountered grace like never before. He didn’t just learn abstract truth about God, but rather how to know Him personally and how to have a daily relationship with Him.    Reflecting on this surprising turning point, Will shared:    “God allowed me to come to the end of myself so that I’d finally hear Him calling me. He put to death who I once was and raised me as a new creature in Christ.”    Will’s identity was no longer defined by his mistakes or the pain he’d endured. Instead, he discovered an identity rooted firmly in Christ: one built on forgiveness, hope, and new beginnings.    Life Radically Changed    Today, Will’s life looks entirely different. He’s happily married, deeply involved in a caring community, and joyfully awaiting the birth of his child. His life is full of purpose, peace, and genuine joy. With awe, he admits:    “I’m still taken aback by the radical change made in my heart. God abundantly blessed me in ways I don’t deserve.”    His story is a vivid reminder that redemption and restoration are always possible.    A Biblical Reflection: The Story of Joseph  Will’s journey parallels the powerful story of Joseph in the Bible (Genesis 37-50). Joseph was betrayed by his own brothers, sold into slavery, and later wrongly imprisoned. For years, his circumstances appeared hopeless. Yet through it all, Joseph experienced God’s steadfast presence and ultimate redemption.    Years after his trials began, Joseph declared:    “ You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good, to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. ” (Genesis 50:20, NIV)    Like Joseph, Will faced hardships and uncertainty. Yet in both stories, God took what seemed irreparably broken and transformed it into something beautiful and purposeful.    Lessons We Can Hold Onto    Will’s story, and Joseph’s before him, teach powerful lessons we can embrace in our own lives:    God’s Grace  reaches into our deepest darkness, offering forgiveness and renewal, no matter our past mistakes.  God’s Faithfulness  sustains us through seasons of loss, grief, and confusion.  God’s Goodness  continually surprises us, transforming pain into purpose and despair into hope.    Encouragement for Your Journey    If you find yourself in a difficult season, uncertain if restoration is possible, remember these powerful promises from God’s Word:    “ The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. ” (Psalm 34:18, NIV)    “ Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: the old has gone, the new is here! ” (2 Corinthians 5:17, NIV)    No matter how far you’ve drifted or how deep your pain, you’re never beyond God’s reach. Will’s life is living proof of that powerful truth.    Today, may you feel encouraged to trust that God sees you, knows you, and deeply loves you. Your story, just like Will’s, is not over. Redemption awaits.    You Can Be Part of Someone Else’s Story    Stories like Will’s happen through the generous support and compassionate hearts of individuals like you. At JUMPSTART SC, our mission is to help men and women overcome their past and step into a brighter, hope-filled future.    Would you consider joining us by volunteering or giving?     Your involvement creates opportunities for transformation, restoration, and second chances.    Learn more about JUMPSTART SC Together, let’s help more people experience a future greater than their past.

When Angel Parada picked up the phone and heard the raspy little voice on the other end, he froze. It was his son—the same voice he hadn’t heard in five years. “I knew it immediately,” he said. “That’s him. That’s my boy.” For Angel, that moment was more than a phone call. It was a resurrection. The culmination of months of prayer, years of pain, and a lifetime of wondering whether restoration was even possible. It was a moment that only God could orchestrate. But why was that so impactful? Let’s rewind for a moment… The Unknown Angel didn’t come to JUMPSTART from just around the corner… he came from a whole other country. A native of Canada, Angel arrived in Spartanburg, South Carolina, with nothing but fear in his heart and uncertainty in his hands. “I’m not from here. I had nothing—no ID, no clothes, no medical records. Just fear,” he said. But one by one, JUMPSTART and the community around him met him where he was. Clothes? Provided. ID? Handled. Medical care? Covered. “God allowed JUMPSTART to provide. And I realized— what else do I need to be afraid about ?”   The Mental Battle While Angel’s physical needs were met, the biggest war was in his mind. Coming out of prison, everything felt “too normal.” The anxiety was heavy. The doubt whispered daily. But Angel didn’t face it alone. He leaned on his therapist. He allowed himself to be vulnerable to his JUMPSTART brothers. He found strength in his faith and encouragement from those walking alongside him. “Sometimes I filled myself up by letting others in. And sometimes, just by sharing, I was unknowingly building them up too. That cycle—that’s healing,” he said.   When God Surprises You Angel’s greatest surprise came on a Tuesday afternoon. “I got a text from my mom: ‘If you want to talk to your son, you need to call me right now. He’s here.’” Five years of silence. Five years of hoping. Five years of thinking it would take a decade—maybe more—to rebuild a relationship. And there he was. On the other end of the line. Talking about school. Laughing. Still carrying that same rasp in his voice that Angel remembered from long ago. “I cried for days. You can't science that away,” Angel said, laughing through tears. “It wasn’t luck. It wasn’t coincidence. That was God.”   More Than a Program JUMPSTART didn’t just give Angel a roof over his head, or a means of transportation—it gave him room to breathe, to believe, to build again. With his diabetes diagnosis, JUMPSTART ensured he received care without a crushing medical bill. With his basic needs now secure, Angel could focus on going back to school, finding a job that aligned with his values, and deepening friendships that would last a lifetime. “JUMPSTART creates opportunities that create more opportunities,” he explained. “And those open the door to more I never saw coming.”   Don’t Give Up When asked what he’d say to families praying for a loved one who’s struggling, Angel didn’t hesitate: “Don’t give up. Ever. God is doing things behind the scenes. Even when it looks hopeless, He’s moving. If I had given up, that call with my son never would’ve happened.” From prison walls to phone calls with his child, from panic attacks to purpose, Angel is living proof that no situation is beyond the reach of God’s redemption. And if you ask him what changed everything? “I stopped underestimating God,” he said. “Because everything He’s done—every single thing—has been bigger than I could ever imagine.” Watch the full interview with Angel here!

What if there was a way that you could serve JUMPSTART by allowing us to serve you?    Well, if you live in the Greenville - Spartanburg, SC area, there is—JUMPSTART Landscaping.    Now that spring is here, you’ve probably noticed that your yard could use some TLC. But you may not want to give up half of your weekend to trimming the hedges and pulling weeds. Why not use a high-end landscaping service that also allows you to support JUMPSTART SC’s mission?    One of the key ways in which JUMPSTART differs from some non-profits is that we believe a social enterprise   provides meaningful ways to support and have maximum impact for the mission.  One of the greatest obstacles people face when transitioning out of prison is finding steady employment, and JUMPSTART Landscaping provides a way for individuals to be employed, serve the community, and gain skills they can transfer over to other areas of their life.    At JUMPSTART Landscaping, we’re not just mowing lawns—we’re cultivating leaders like Jason.     After seven years in prison, Jason was released almost two years ago. With limited job prospects, he joined our landscaping enterprise to start earning money, with a goal of saving up for a house.    Then he was injured on the job. And not just a cut or blister—he had to undergo surgery. For a couple of months, he couldn’t work at all.    But he was learning about the power of mindset when faced with setbacks, the power of resilience, and the power of trusting in God. Instead of taking a “woe is me” attitude or throwing in the towel on his goal, he doubled down.    He spent that time encouraging others and serving in the ways he could. He learned leadership skills and grew his knowledge in horticulture and plant husbandry—something we now do with our entire team.    Not only did he recently close on a house, but he’s now our second-in-command at JUMPSTART Landscaping. He’s passing on what he’s learned to new residents, upskilling our landscaping workforce.    Because our goal at JUMPSTART Landscaping is to train premium workers so we can attract premium customers. If someone just wants their lawn mowed for as cheap as possible, we’re not the right fit. But if you want curated landscaping to project a strong brand image for the public, then our services are definitely for you.    In addition to lawn care services like mowing, trimming, and weed control, JUMPSTART Landscaping also provides:    Custom landscape design services  Irrigation system services  Outdoor lighting services  Retention pond / retaining wall management  Pressure washing  Debris and brush removal  Grading services    From sod installation to garden design, you’re not only receiving superb landscape maintenance—you’re also investing into the lives of people just like Jason. You’re becoming a partner in our mission, serving our residents as they serve you. You’re empowering lives and cultivating hope.    We believe landscaping is one of the most noble professions, going back to God placing humans “in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it.” (Genesis 2:15, ESV) Jesus often used agricultural imagery in his parables to teach people about the Kingdom of God. So, for us, landscaping isn’t only an economic venture—it’s another way we are holistically equipping our residents in mind, body, and spirit.    If you’re looking for exceptional commercial landscaping installation and or maintenance services in the greater Greenville/ Spartanburg area, then we invite you to reach out and get a quote .

John still wakes up some nights in a cold sweat, heart racing from a nightmare that feels all too real. In it, he’s back in his prison cell, reliving violent altercations and the haunting memories of childhood abuse that followed him into incarceration. For John – and thousands of returning citizens like him – the end of a prison sentence doesn’t mean the end of trauma. In fact, many who leave prison carry deep scars: post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from both their past and their time behind bars, and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) that set the stage for a lifetime of struggle. These invisible wounds make the already daunting task of reentry to the community even harder, and they help explain why so many people land back behind bars after release. However, John’s story does not end in despair, because Christ offers a way to healing and redemption . The Gospel doesn’t just modify behavior; it transforms hearts and renews minds (Romans 12:2). Through the power of God’s truth and the support of a faith-based community like JUMPSTART South Carolina , men and women like John discover that believing better truth leads to better behavior . PTSD, ACE Scores, and the Deep Wounds of Incarceration For countless incarcerated individuals, trauma is a common denominator . Research shows that PTSD is far more prevalent in prison populations than in the general public. The National Institutes of Health estimates about 18% of male inmates and 40% of female inmates suffer from PTSD – rates several times higher than those of civilians. (1) Nearly 97% of people in prisons have experienced at least one ACE , such as childhood abuse, neglect, or household dysfunction. Even more alarming, a large study found that half of juvenile offenders had four or more ACEs , compared to only about 13% of the general population. (2) Many juvenile offenders end up as adult offenders. I was in the juvenile justice system three times and move closer to brokenness than to wholeness. But thankfully, God chases rebels down. If you haven't heard Ben Fuller's song, Chasing Rebels , and you or a loved one was or is still a rebel, I encourage you to go give it a listen! When people grow up in brokenness—without loving guidance, stability, or truth—it’s no surprise they struggle with addiction, anger, and crime. Jesus Himself said, “You shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free” (John 8:32). Most prisoners never knew the truth of God’s love and purpose for their lives. They have been told they are worthless, unloved, and irredeemable. These lies fuel destructive behaviors . But the Gospel introduces a new identity: beloved, chosen, and redeemed (Ephesians 1:4-7). (Pictured: JS Alum) The Gospel: Breaking the Chains of Trauma and Recidivism The world tries to rehabilitate through rules and programs, but only Christ can truly transform. The root issue of recidivism is not just bad choices—it’s a broken heart in need of healing . Jesus came to “ bind up the brokenhearted, proclaim freedom for the captives, and release from darkness the prisoners ” (Isaiah 61:1). Programs like JUMPSTART South Carolina embody this mission by offering wraparound, Christ-centered support that tackles the real issues of trauma and recidivism. 1. Renewing the Mind with the Truth of the Gospel Romans 12:2 commands us to “be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Most incarcerated individuals have lived in survival mode, guided by fear and distrust. Their past shaped their thinking, and their thinking shaped their behavior. True transformation begins when they replace lies with God’s truth —that they are made in His image, that they have purpose, and that they are not defined by their worst mistakes. JUMPSTART South Carolina starts its work inside prisons , offering a 40-week discipleship program that leads participants through Scripture-based renewal . They learn about forgiveness, identity in Christ, and how to live with integrity . This process helps break the mental strongholds of shame and hopelessness, replacing them with faith, hope, and purpose . 2. Healing Trauma Through Christ-Centered Community One of the biggest predictors of success after prison is having a strong, supportive community . Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Without healthy relationships, most returning citizens will fall back into old cycles. JUMPSTART provides mentorship, church partnerships, and discipleship homes that ensure no one walks alone. John, for example, never had a stable home growing up. But when he left prison, JUMPSTART provided him with a place to live, a church family, and Christian mentors who helped him grow in faith. For the first time, he experienced grace and accountability —people who genuinely cared about his future. 3. Restoring Purpose Through Work and Discipleship Ephesians 2:10 declares that “we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works.” Many prisoners struggle with feeling useless . But part of JUMPSTART’s holistic approach is helping them discover their God-given gifts and find meaningful employment . We partners with businesses to provide job training and work opportunities, ensuring participants gain skills to support themselves and their families. John, once told he would never amount to anything, is now a hardworking, respected employee and a mentor to others . The Gospel taught him that his past does not determine his future . Through faith and perseverance, he has built a life that reflects God’s redemption. A 96% Success Rate: Proof That God’s Way Works The results of JUMPSTART South Carolina’s Christ-centered, holistic model are nothing short of miraculous. While national recidivism rates hover around 70% within five years , JUMPSTART graduates have a 96% success rate in staying out of prison . (3) That means 96% of participants break free from the cycle of crime and trauma. Why? Because true transformation is not about behavior modification —it’s about heart transformation . When someone experiences the love of Christ, their desires change. They begin to walk in righteousness, not because of rules, but because of relationship (2 Corinthians 5:17). How You Can Be Part of the Gospel’s Transforming Work JUMPSTART South Carolina’s success is proof that the Gospel changes lives . But transformation requires faithful people to step up and be the hands and feet of Christ . You can be part of this life-changing mission: Pray for those still in prison, that they would encounter Jesus and find hope beyond their circumstances. Give financially to JUMPSTART South Carolina to support housing, job training, and discipleship programs for returning citizens. Volunteer as a mentor, teacher, or prayer partner, walking alongside those seeking a second chance. Jesus changes hearts, and changed hearts change lives. The men and women coming out of prison are not beyond hope. When they encounter the truth of God’s Word, the love of His people, and the power of His Spirit, transformation happens. By supporting JUMPSTART South Carolina, you are not just helping people stay out of prison—you are helping them step into the abundant life Christ promised (John 10:10). Join us in proving that grace is greater than the past , and that second chances are at the heart of the Gospel. With gratitude for God's grace, Dr. Cary Sanders, CEO, JUMPSTART SC Watch how the Gospel and tangible support changed my life: Sources: (1) ICJIA report – PTSD severity correlates with more arrests; PTSD increases risk of recidivism​ ( icjia.illinois.gov ) and Prison Policy Initiative – incarceration can cause “Post-Incarceration Syndrome,” similar to PTSD, affecting people even after release​ ( prisonpolicy.org .) . (2) Florida study on juvenile offenders – ~97% had ≥1 ACE; 50% had ≥4 ACEs vs 13% of general population​ centerforchildcounseling.org (3) JUMPSTART outcomes – 96% of program graduates stay out of prison​ standtogether.org