Bob Caldwell, Sr. is a graduate of The Citadel and served the US in Vietnam as part of the 5th Special Forces Group. In 1975, he founded Grace Management Group, a family-held collection of businesses headquartered in Spartanburg, and includes one of the largest home fragrance manufacturers in the country.    In addition to serving with JUMPSTART, he has also been instrumental in working with other nonprofits, including Rice Bowls, which feeds orphaned children in developing nations, the South Carolina Christian Foundation, and Upward Sports.    He and his wife Sylvia are active members at Hope Point Church in Spartanburg and have four grown children, nineteen grandchildren, and a great-grandchild. Outside of his extensive ministry work, you’ll find him spending time with all the grandchildren, including leading book clubs with them.

Donald Spann earned a degree in Physical Education and Health from the College of Charleston with an emphasis in Sports Medicine. Afterward, he spent nearly a decade working in athletics, including with the Tampa Bay Rays, New York Knicks, St. Louis Cardinals, and Western Kentucky University. He then returned to South Carolina when he transitioned into pharmaceutical sales. Today, you can find him serving as a Campus Pastor for Grace Church in Greenville.    Since 2007, he has served on numerous school improvement councils and nonprofit boards, including as a current board member for JUMPSTART SC. Donald and his wife Mary Beth have four children and one grandchild, and he has helped lead over fifteen international mission trips from Kenya to Puerto Rico.

Born and raised in Greenville, SC, Mike Kirakides graduated from Clemson University in 1988 before going into his family’s business to hone his operations and management skills. Afterwards, he went into commercial real estate with the Furman Company before co-founding KDS Commercial Properties, a brokerage and development firm.    In 2016, he was contacted by Bill White to serve with JUMPSTART where Mike’s talents for real estate proved instrumental in the development of Restoration Village. Once he learned about the challenges facing men and women coming out of prison, he was moved to help remove those hurdles and officially joined the board in 2017.    “As a believer and follower of Jesus Christ, we’re all called to serve… We all have a gift. Everybody has something to offer.”    As a firm believer in second chances, Mike’s vision for JUMPSTART is to see more lives changed through the Gospel. And because he doesn’t believe we should put God in a box, he hopes to see the ministry grow into a thriving community that can be replicated for greater impact. He’s been married to his wife Debbie for thirty years and they have three daughters together. Since 2009, they have been faithful members of Grace Church.

Sharon McDowell grew up in Spartanburg and majored in both accounting and music. Working in accounting for twenty years, she currently runs her own private practice as a CPA, focused on serving nonprofits.    Not long after JUMPSTART was formed, she was invited to assist with the necessary accounting tasks for a few hours a week. While she was still homeschooling her two sons at the time, she was compelled by the vision of the ministry. As a self-proclaimed “numbers person,” she was won over by the numbers proving JUMPSTART’s success.    “The mission matters: broken lives, families, and communities are rebuilt, reconciled, and restored. Generational cycles of abuse, neglect, and violence are ended and we indeed see God bring beauty from ashes, joy from mourning, and hope from despair.”    Outside of her work as JUMPSTART’s Treasurer, Sharon also volunteers by tutoring kindergarteners at a local school and serving in her church. She still lives in Spartanburg along with her husband and spends her free time hiking, reading, and playing the piano.

Raised in Tennessee, Jon Jamison attended New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary where he earned a Master of Divinity in Christian Education, with a specialization in Social Work. For eighteen years, he ran an inner-city community center for the North American Mission Board, which included working directly with individuals transitioning out of prison.    In 2017, he became Team Leader for the South Carolina Baptist Convention’s SERVE Team. In this role, he has helped equip churches to better serve their communities, which led to him crossing paths with JUMPSTART. After hearing firsthand testimonies of the work happening at the Big House, he was moved to become more involved.    “I serve with JUMPSTART because I believe in the mission … The organization is making a tangible difference and provides local churches with tangible opportunities to make a difference in the community.”    Now residing in Columbia, Jon has been married to his wife Mindy since 1996 and together they have one daughter. As a board member, he hopes to see JUMPSTART’s success multiplied in other states so more imprisoned individuals can be introduced to the freedom offered in Christ.

Hailing from Aiken, SC, Dr. Gwendolyn Johnson spent forty-five years in education, teaching everyone from public school kindergarteners to graduate students at the University of South Carolina. Among her many accolades, she was the 2014 recipient of the Pickens-Salley Southern Woman of Distinction Award in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.     As an advocate for her community, she has participated in environmental research, implemented grants for underprivileged students, and was a co-founder of the African American Community Achievement Network. She also launched her own consulting company, Unleashing Potential (UP), to help adolescents and young adults pursue their God-given purpose—including participants in JUMPSTART’s prison program.     “Prisons are filled with people harboring great potential given by our Great Creator, God. It brings great joy to be a part of a mission like JUMPSTART that awakens the Holy Spirit in each of us (inmates and volunteers) as Jesus reveals the way, the truth, and the life.”     Dr. Johnson’s faith has also inspired her to take part in JUMPSTART’s programs by volunteering at the Trenton and Allendale Correctional Institutions. The rest of her time is spent with her family, especially her four grandchildren, serving at her church, and enjoying her many hobbies.

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What kind of people do you celebrate? Kindness, helpfulness, and humility are qualities that attract people to one another. Those who make a difference in the lives of others deserve to be celebrated for their generosity and kindness. One of those people is Matthew. Matthew’s journey with JUMPSTART SC began while he was incarcerated at Perry. After completing our prison ministry program, he came back the next year to serve as an inside leader. He grew into one who gave hope. Who helped others discover the purpose in Christ. Upon his release in October 2020, he knew JUMPSTART’s transitional program was where the Lord was leading him. Immediately, he began serving others. He began taking on more responsibility than he had to because he wanted to love those around him well. When he graduated two years ago, he could have moved back to his hometown to be closer to family, but he chose to join our team as a housing manager. In this role, he lives as a missionary in our intake home ensuring those in the program have the daily encouragement, support, and accountability they need to thrive. Matthew has had a difficult few weeks. He has been in and out of the hospital. His doctors are still uncertain what is wrong with him. Yet, even in difficulty he remains steadfast and eager to serve others. In the midst of difficulty, he lives as a Christ follower should. We ask you to pause for a moment and pray that, if it is His will, Matthew's health will be restored fully. JUMPSTART is committed to breaking the cycles of addiction and crime. We love seeing people secure their own transportation, become employed, and save for their future. We are full of awe as we witness God give them beauty from ashes. When we see one transform from a prisoner to a homeowner we literally cheer with joy. However, these results are a by-product of what the JUMPSTART family prizes most. We believe freedom from addiction, making responsible choices, and serving others are natural outcomes of discipleship. When men and women are taught to follow the Lord, cycles of crime and addiction are replaced a lifestyle serving others, taking responsibility for one’s future, serving in church, and being wise and diligent with the opportunities one is afforded. Matthew may never be a homeowner. He may never marry again. But these aren't the things most important to him. Matthew’s hope is in Christ and whatever He has for him. He knows he is getting closer to his eternal reward every day. Matthew understands his purpose is to make a difference in the world for God’s glory. Matthew is rich in the things that matter most. JUMPSTART SC exists to teach incarcerated individuals about God's purpose for their lives, how to live as a disciple, and to provide tangible support to people coming out of prisons so they can flourish and live passionately for God's glory above all else. God uses the JUMPSTART family to make redemption stories like Matthew’s possible. Many have served and given to ensure discipleship and transformational opportunities are available. There are many other stories like Matthew’s that we’ve all witnessed over the years. And there are more stories like theirs that will occur as we each do our part to ensure more men and women have access to discipleship and transitional services. If you are able and want to become more involved than you are currently, please reach out. Together, as we continue to join the Lord in His work, more will come to know and love Him as King. Give Now to Support Life Transformation

When approaching this story on second chance employment, I imagined I would speak with employers and see their point of view. But, what I quickly failed to realize is the power that programs like JUMPSTART hold when they transform the lives of those who are formerly incarcerated. When I reached out to Jordan Durham to work on this story, she was immediately helpful and set something up for me to come and speak with Jeremy Walker, the Chief of Staff, and Justin Durrell, the Director of Operations. I did not know that when I walked in to meet Jordan, I would be intruding on a morning meeting where they were discussing their group read of Atomic Habits and quickly invited me to join the meeting and listen to their discussion that ended with a prayer. I quickly noticed that this program is hands-on and that it is so successful because of the people behind it. When I spoke to Jeremy, he was so open and honest about his past and how he ended up at JUMPSTART. From serving time in Allendale to working at UPS to becoming the Inside Program Administrator, it was apparent that he wanted to help others the way the inside program of JUMPSTART helped him. He shared with me how JUMPSTART helps people learn how to develop a budget; apply for job interviews; and provide them with housing and transportation. That is what stuck with me - for many of these people, the hurdle does not just stop at getting a job; it also is being able to get to and from the job and to and from the interview. When I sat at that morning meeting, the team pulled up the schedule, which was filled with different colors and time blocks of when participants had interviews or work and which person would be taking them to their destination. Following my conversation with Jeremy, I knew my story of how this program is successful is rooted in his own story. His willingness to tell me his past and the ways that he grew from JUMPSTART and aims to do the same for others was inspiring, and I felt like a representation of everything this organization strives to be. When I walked over to the housing complex right outside of the office, I instantly noticed the multitude of prayers lining the walls. There was a bible verse right over the entryway, along with posters of different verses and a constant reminder of the faith-driven motive behind JUMPSTART. Second-chance employment gives people a chance to start over and adjust back to a society that kept moving while they served time. But, it is programs like JUMPSTART that do much more than just find people a job, they help them create a new life. Employees like Jeremy and Justin work to give back the help they once received. As Jeremy put it, “It is a labor of love.” Gracie Rorie, Senior Broadcast and Journalism Major at USC

JUMPSTART's mission hits home for me because I've walked a similar path. Growing up in what looked like a successful family, I took a wrong turn at 16, diving into a rebellious phase and seeking approval through drugs. Despite my parents' efforts, I ended up on a dangerous road toward potential tragedy. Thankfully, at 19, I met Steven Merwin from Campus Outreach, and his commitment to Christ helped me confront my sin and brokenness. On December 2nd, 1996, I prayed the sinner's prayer, surrendering my life to Jesus. Unfortunately, the struggle with honesty and the search for approval persisted, leading me to the rooms of Alcoholics Anonymous. Eventually, I would take it seriously, and with the help of a mentor named Jack O’Connell, I took steps through recovery, sparking a newfound desire to serve the Lord. I'm blessed with a wonderful family now—Rachel and I married in 2002, and we're raising three amazing kids, 19, 18, and 16. Parenting is my most cherished responsibility, and I'm profoundly grateful for my family. My professional journey has been diverse, starting in real estate and finance before a pivotal moment in 2009 when my pastor entrusted me with launching an initiative supporting churches in funding their vision. Being a part of the launch of SecureGive marked the beginning of my passion for creating purpose-driven cultures and fostering organizational clarity. In 2010, I joined Newspring Church in Anderson, where I leveraged technology and launched Staff Development to align discipleship objectives. Later, I created CultureBus—a culture development process that has served various churches and businesses. After starting to consult at Grace Church in Greenville, SC in 2018, I eventually joined the staff as a Ministry Specialist, spearheading objectives for staff and volunteers. Despite the diverse roles, the common thread has always been building momentum around a compelling vision. Now, as the Director of Strategic Impact at JUMPSTART, I hope to empower others using the gifts and experiences God has blessed me with. I understand the metaphorical shackles of sin and brokenness, having experienced God's relentless pursuit of transformation. Jesus not only rescued me but changed my entire perspective on life. The opportunity to be a Stephen Merwin and a Jack O’Connell, assisting others on a similar journey, is a profound gift for which I am truly grateful. Jumpstart's mission aligns with my story, and I am eager to contribute to transforming lives from the inside out. Chris Rivers Director of Strategic Impact JUMPSTART SC

Meet Blake Sanders: A Husband, Father, and Community Champion In the bustling town of West Pelzer, there's a man who wears many hats – husband, father, mayor, landscape architect, planner, and professor. But if you ask him, Blake Sanders will tell you that being a husband and father are the roles closest to his heart. Why? Because Blake knows that it's the people in our lives who matter most. Blake is a strong supporter of JUMPSTART Landscaping, that's been making a positive impact in West Pelzer. While the organization has done amazing work implementing Blake's landscape designs, he'll be the first to tell you that the true heroes are the landscaping employees working tirelessly on the job site. Their camaraderie and shared moments of prayer matter more to him than any project. But how did Blake end up on this remarkable journey of creativity and community development? It all started with childhood memories of playing with Lego sets, sparking his interest in creative projects. Later on, he ventured into teaching but quickly realized it wasn't his calling. During his time at Southern Wesleyan University, he honed essential skills in time management and budgeting, setting the stage for his future career. Blake's creativity flows not just from the environment but from his mindset. He dedicates three days to immerse himself in each project, focusing on one client and one deliverable at a time. He uses the Charette Process to involve clients deeply in the planning process. One of Blake's notable achievements was the establishment of Studio Main, an evolution of his past internships and experiences in places like Istanbul, Turkey. It's all about fostering a sense of community, focusing on what matters most, and creating walkable, likable, safe, enjoyable, and economically sound spaces. But Blake's community involvement doesn't end there. As an elected official of West Pelzer, he saw a need for change. His efforts transformed the community into a thriving space where people could connect, walk, bike, and enjoy the outdoors together. Today, not only are there vibrant local businesses meeting the community's needs, but there are also like-minded business owners giving back in unique ways. In 2018, Blake's path crossed with Justin, a City of Easley's public works team member. Their collaboration on a significant project led to a lasting friendship. When Justin reached out for help with JUMPSTART Landscaping, Blake jumped in, vetting the business plan and offering architectural design expertise pro bono. For Blake, life is about more than money; it's about making a difference. He fondly remembers Justin Durrell, JUMPSTART's Director of Operations, for his boundless energy and dedication to growth. Justin's leadership style empowers his team to learn, grow, and take on new challenges. If there's one word to describe Blake's view of JUMPSTART, it's "mission." He believes in their unwavering commitment to serving people, a mission that resonates deeply with his own values. As Blake looks ahead, he envisions an even brighter future for JUMPSTART. He sees the organization expanding its mission to impact West Pelzer and the broader Upstate, particularly Anderson County. In celebrating Blake Sanders, we celebrate a man who knows that people are the heart and soul of any community. His dedication, creativity, and passion for making a difference are the driving forces behind the positive changes in West Pelzer and beyond.

My most Cherished Day The sound of heavy metal doors clanging behind me is a testament to God's goodness and grace every Monday. A puzzling statement, you may think. Monday is my cherished day—the day I've pledged to assist incarcerated men in discovering their purpose at Allendale Correctional Institution (ACI). Excitement fills me as I step in, representing JUMPSTART SC (JUMPSTART), a program centered around a 40-week curriculum inspired by Rick Warren's "Purpose Driven Life." Overview of the Inside Program Beyond the "Purpose Driven Life" itself, participants use a workbook to reflect on each spiritual discipline, and naturally, the Holy Bible stands as the foundational text. I am often asked why I am excited about going to prison. I respond that there is no riper field to share God's love, redemption, forgiveness, and goodness than at this place. Each week, the men in JUMPSTART at ACI share with the entire group of participants their perspective of the week's chapter in Purpose Driven Life and their answers to questions in their workbooks, also referred to as their life books. Scriptures accompany each of the 40 chapters and are integral to the men growing in Christ. Many have asked if I am afraid to go to a prison where men have been convicted of all sorts of crimes. Why should I be afraid? I know I am doing what God would have me do. I know the men we visit weekly (usually around 65) are very protective of volunteers. I feel I am fulfilling a purpose in my life to help these men whom many shun and say there is no hope for to come to know Jesus. My Involvement My story of how I became a volunteer with JUMPSTART at Allendale Correctional Institution is an example of how God works through so many avenues and paths to take us places we never dreamed of going. The year was 2016. Then, Animal Advocates of Barnwell were allowed to bring cats and dogs to the prison to live in dorms with carefully selected men. I was involved with Animal Advocates through my grandson, Nicholas, who had volunteered with that program. At that time, Vikki Scott, president and CEO of Animal Advocates of Barnwell, was director of the MeowMate/MuttMate program at Allendale Correctional Institution. While at the center with Nicholas, she and I would talk about the MeowMate/MuteMate program at ACI, the good it was doing for the men, and how helpful it was for them to have a cat or dog to care for and love. One day, Vikki called me and asked if I would be interested in attending ACI, that volunteers were needed to help with the JUMPSTART program. I told Vikki I had little time because of my husband's illness and other family obligations. The best I could do was visit once a month to help with the class. Little did I know I would be hooked. That call changed my life in so many ways. After that first volunteer experience, I was ready to return to ACI every Monday. ever have I been so welcomed and appreciated as when I walked into the JUMPSTART class. They wanted to change their lives, become better men, and learn how to be productive citizens outside prison walls. These men were so hungry to talk to someone from the outside about their families, prayer requests, and praises. JUMPSTART participants go to classes inside their dorms at ACI each week, studying and preparing for the Monday meeting, where all men in the program from each dorm come together with JUMPSTART leaders and volunteers. Dorm leaders and volunteers facilitate the Monday classes on rotation, with participants sharing their perspectives on that week's curriculum discipline. How to Get Involved How does someone become a volunteer with JUMPSTART? First, they must complete an application required by the SC Department of Corrections and receive training from the prison chaplain. This application covers the rules and regulations needed for volunteers to enter any prison to volunteer with any program volunteers with JUMPSTART must also complete a six-week training program with inside JUMPSTART leaders before volunteering. This training fosters unity between volunteers and leaders, building a solid connection with participants. The training aims to shape individuals into disciples, living by Christ's teachings, whether inside the prison or returning to society after their release. JUMPSTART and its programs aim to help incarcerated men and women find their unique life purpose. I have found my life's purpose that I cannot put into words or even describe what it feels like to see prison inmates' lives transformed to live with a purpose. JUMPSTART SC needs Volunteers JUMPSTART at Allendale Correctional Institution needs volunteers! As of 2023, the JUMPSTART class comprises five dedicated volunteers assisting ten inside leaders, benefitting around 60 class members. More volunteers would create more one-on-one interactions with participants, facilitating deeper connections through listening, encouragement, witnessing, and sharing the essence of God's love. If you're interested in volunteering or need more information about the JUMPSTART program at Allendale Correctional Institution, please reach out at 803-541-5921. Additionally, I can coordinate with JUMPSTART graduates currently affiliated with the program in Spartanburg, SC. They can visit churches, share their transformative experiences, and discuss post-release opportunities offered by JUMPSTART. By: Valenda Black, Inside Program Volunteer JUMPSTART SC