Make a Difference

Have you ever wanted to make a difference in the life of someone who was trying to make changes for the better to their own life? If yes, The Redemption Project wants to hear from you.

A Life Mentor at The Redemption Project provides support and guidance to a currently incarcerated person. Communication with a student begins as they are about halfway through our Virtues For Success class. You would continue to communicate and mentor them through reentering into the community and for about one year after release.

We provide you with training, guidance, and support throughout your mentorship. Your time commitment is approximately an email once a week.

If you are interested in this rewarding volunteer opportunity or have any questions, please contact John C. Williams at jcwilliams@redemptionproject.org.

Letter to Our Mentors from a Graduate

December 2022

Dear Mentors,

I want to thank you for your continued support, and dedication to the cause of re-entry, and the men, women, and families that are affected by it.  It is encouraging to know that there are so many wonderful people who are willing to aid in our success.  Thank you again for all that you do.

My name is David Snider, and I am a graduate and Fellow of The Redemption Project (TRP).  I am currently serving my fourteenth year of a twenty year sentence for a non-violent Federal drug offense.  Much of the reason for the length of my sentence is due to my history of addiction and recidivism.  This is in no way an excuse as I am responsible for actions and the decisions I have made.  I am however a product of the revolving door of incarceration caused in part by a lack of support, resources and opportunities upon release. 

The release process is never easy.  There are many hoops and obstacles one must go through when re-entering society.  Anxiety, frustration, and depression can often come from the transition period.  Just the smallest amount of assistance, and support can be detrimental to ones success.  By supporting the re-entry process you are not only investing in my life, but you are also investing in the lives of my children, family, and society as a whole.  There is a ripple affect when you instill value and worth into someone's life.  Imagine all the lives that can be touched by showing one person that they are worth your time no matter where they are at.

The investment of TRP and it's supporters in my life has helped me to become the father, and son that I am today.  Your continued support has has given me strength to face life's trials and adversities.  Your mentoring has given me new wisdom, and knowledge to confidently apply self control to the decisions I make everyday.  The example that you set reflects someone that we hope to emulate in the right ordering of ourselves and our lives. 

TRP is more than just a class or a program.  It is a synergetic family that is working together for the common good.  It is altruistic people who are willing to see the good in all people.  TRP is about more than just addressing recidivism.  It is about redeeming the lives of those who have made mistakes, and restoring the families affected by those mistakes.  It is preparing men and women to be successful upon release, because all TRP Fellows will one day re-enter society. 

I want to thank you so much for going along on this journey of self discovery with me by investing in my life.  My family sees a different man today thanks to people like you who have entered my life.  Your contribution, however big or small, matter, because you have shown us that we matter. 

Thank you for being you.

Dave Snider - Cohort 1 (2019)