Mentors for Offenders in Cedar Rapids

Offenders and ex-offenders can be some of the most vulnerable members of our society Current criminal justice systems do not assist individuals to overcome the social and psychological challenges of either incarceration, or positive reentry into family and community life Individuals released from jail or prison often return to their communities with no employment, home, or support system Through a vast network of volunteer mentors and support groups, Catholic Charities? Jail & Prison Ministry program strives to prepare and support ex-offenders as they work toward positive re-entry into family and community life Mentors meet with offenders in prison or jail as well as after their release to provide the needed support to resist relapse into old habits and lifestyles The program helps ex-offenders establish positive relationships, experience healthy social activities, and connect with community resources that can aid in finding work, affordable housing, and meeting basic needs Mentors meet weekly one on one with ex-offenders and help them work to complete goals they have established for successful re-entry into the community Volunteer mentors meet with ex-offenders based on a mutually defined schedule which can include days, evenings, or weekends. Volunteers are needed on an ongoing basis As volunteers are available, and ex-offenders identify themselves the volunteers and ex-offenders are matched together | Volunteers must be 21 years old They must complete an application with Catholic Charities and a background check Volunteers will also ask to attend a 2-hour training session