⛓️‍💥 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

When people ask what makes JUMPSTART different from other nonprofits, there are a million answers we can give. But one of the biggest is how we strategically look for the intersection of what will serve both our participants and  the community  at the same time. In our mission to help residents integrate successfully with the community, we believe that social enterprise provides a more promising path than handouts.    A few years ago, we started JUMPSTART Landscaping as part of this vision. Now, with the opening of the Indigo Hope Center, we’ve launched JUMPSTART Catering & Events . Not only is this a way for us to engage in the local economy, but helps us fulfill our mission. Events bring people together, and this new social enterprise will provide a tangible way for the community to invest in the lives of our program participants while having your event needs met.    Participants like Courtney , a member of our events and catering team who is working hard so she can be reunited with her two children. When Courtney went to prison, both her kids were under two years old . For the next two years, they only knew her by voice—talking over the phone, but no in-person visits.     Yet when she first saw her kids after her release, they instantly knew who she was by her voice. Courtney shared how that moment was a gift from God  to her after experiencing so much shame and remorse for her past choices.     But now she’s finding her identity in Christ, as a daughter of the King, which is giving her the strength and motivation to work hard. In fact, Courtney recently made the brave decision to stay in the program longer so she can be set up for success. Whether she’s cooking, helping with set up, preparing the menu, or cleaning up at the end of an event, she’s  doing everything for the Lord  and for her kids.    Courtney is just one story among many that you can be a part of through JUMPSTART Catering & Events. As our participants gain both technical and soft skills  through their work, we want to meet the event needs of individuals and groups  in the greater Spartanburg area. Our services include:    Meal & refreshments   Audio/visual capabilities   Event photography (part of the events package)  Catering (pickup and full service delivery)    We can either come to you for your next event, or you can rent our beautiful new space for a variety of events:    Full staff lunch & learns   Staff & volunteer training   Company/organizational award ceremonies   Wedding receptions   Anniversary celebrations   Family reunions     You can even hire out our executive chef Viengxay Phankhaysy for a private event! But ultimately, using our catering and event services means you are partnering with us to transform lives —for the benefit of individuals like Courtney, their families, and our entire community.    To learn more about JUMPSTART Catering & Events, fill out our online form  or contact us.

Finding a job after incarceration isn’t just a small challenge—it can oftentimes be a major roadblock to rebuilding a stable life. Many individuals struggle to gain the right skills or even envision a fulfilling career path. That’s why we’re taking an innovative step forward, integrating Transfr Goggles into our reentry program to bridge the gap and open doors to new opportunities. What Are Transfr Goggles? These state-of-the-art VR headsets are revolutionizing career preparation, using immersive technology to assess aptitude and boost earning potential with employers. This groundbreaking approach keeps pace with industry demands, where programming updates occur as frequently as once a month—ensuring users always have access to the most advanced and relevant training available. Check out the Transfr Overview Video How Does It Work? Here's a quick breakdown of the process: Career Exploration  – Users can choose from up to seven different industries, including automotive, manufacturing, and electrical, to help them discover the career path that best fits their skills and interests. . Live Training Simulation  – They then step into a realistic workplace environment where a virtual instructor guides them through hands-on tasks specific to their chosen field, providing an immersive, real-world training experience. Performance Dashboard  – As users navigate the simulation, their progress is tracked and scored, highlighting strengths and areas for growth. This data can then be shared with potential employers, showcasing each participant’s skills and readiness for the workforce. What's the Impact? With constant software updates and new features, the potential for Transfr within the program is just beginning to unfold. While headset availability is currently limited, the impact has already been undeniable—JUMPSTART is seeing real success, and this is only the start of a breakthrough in both our technology and new possibilities for our participants. Don Williams, JUMPSTART’s Director of Community Relations, has already seen this transformation firsthand: “One participant scored highest in a particular skill area, and now, he’s actually working in that field! The data proves this works—and we know the impact will only grow from here.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Incarceration can create insurmountable hurdles for many, leading to seemingly endless cycles of hopelessness and recidivism. At JUMPSTART, we believe that through Christ, there's always a way to turn the page. This is more than just innovative technology—it’s a gateway to renewed hope and lasting change. As we trust in the Lord and faithfully steward these tools, we can’t wait to continue witnessing the countless lives He will restore and the futures He will redefine.

“How can I get involved with prison ministry efforts?” When people hear about the work happening at JUMPSTART SC, it’s natural for them to want to take the next step from knowledge to action.  So, to make that next step easier, let’s take a closer look at the three primary avenues people can get involved with JUMPSTART SC's prison ministries: #1. Volunteering #2. Employee Partnerships #3. Giving #1. Volunteering Without our incredible volunteers, we would never be able to accomplish our mission. At JUMPSTART, there are two primary avenues for volunteering—our inside program and our transitional program. Inside Program:  These volunteers facilitate and lead discipleship programs inside of correctional institutions. They enter the prison regularly, working face-to-face with prisoners to encourage, inspire, teach, and facilitate discipleship classes. Transitional Program:  Our transitional program needs mentors who come alongside former prisoners who need support with re-entering into society. Other outside mentors use their gifts and experiences to help with various other program needs like social media engagement, fundraising, prayer teams, and anything else needed to accomplish the mission. To learn more about volunteering for JUMPSTART SC, start by filling out the   interest form   on our website. #2. Employment Employment is one of the greatest factors in preventing recidivism among former prisoners. That’s why JUMPSTART’s holistic service model equips our residents to become qualified, dependable workers. But that means we need business partners who are excited to be part of our residents’ second chance.  But it’s not just prison ministries like JUMPSTART who stand to benefit from these partnerships but the businesses themselves! In the case of JUMPSTART: We have a 90% retention rate among our residents, in part because we provide transportation to reduce the risk of no-shows and turnover. Ongoing job training, including soft skills like leadership, emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, and ethics. The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) program that gives employers $2,400 for each new adult hire after they have worked 400 hours. In 2024, one of our graduates won employee of the year at  Contec, Inc.  !  You can see Gustavo's work team celebrate him receiving the award below: If you’d like to learn more about becoming an employment partner or having a second chance employment expert train your HR team for second chance employment, reach out to  don.williams@jumpstartvision.org . #3. Giving Financially supporting a prison ministry is an investment with incredible returns. First and foremost, it’s an investment in God’s work of restoring broken lives.  Second, it’s an investment in the economy since taxpayers save an average of $37,000 annually for each of our residents who don't return to prison.  And with a 96% success rate, you can be confident that your support will make a difference. Learn more about how our financial supporters have made an impact in JUMPSTART South Carolina  here. Ultimately, how you get involved in prison ministry depends on both God’s calling for how to use your time, talents, and treasure. But it also depends on the needs of the specific ministry in your area. In addition to South Carolina, JUMPSTART is now also operating in North Carolina, Georgia, Ohio, Florida, and Texas—and God willing, we will spread to new states soon. If you'd like to learn more about the work of JUMPSTART outside of South Carolina, please reach out to  Ed Troha  . But if we’re not in your area yet, you can still use the information here as a filter to see which local ministries to serve with. Do they have a holistic service model serving physical, mental, emotional, economical, and spiritual needs? What is the ministry’s success rate with recidivism? How are they equipping participants? A great next step to take would be to  brainstorm the best options for you or have me speak to your group . Together, we can help men and women have a future greater than their past! What kind of impact could you have? Watch below as a mom and son share how people giving Anthony a second chance changed the trajectory of his life: