Contact Information
Our mission is to improve public safety and support the local economy by reducing recidivism through faith-centered Restorative Justice programs. We serve clients through Community-Based Correctional Facilities.
Mailing Address
P.O. Box 502
Akron, OH 44309
Phone: 330-472-1166, Dennis Shawhan, Executive Director
Email: dennis@brokenchainsministry.org
CONTACT FORM
prayer request
“Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:5-7
Leadership Team
Rev. Dennis Shawhan, Executive Director, Broken Chains Ministry
330-472-1166 (mobile)
dennis@brokenchainsministry.org
Dennis Shawhan founded Broken Chains Ministry after serving as an ordained minister within the Summit County Jail for six years. With his wife Tamela, a mentor and Chaplain, Dennis spearheads the Restorative Justice programs, and reentry initiatives for the ministry including collaboration with the judicial system, local law enforcement, community service organizations, and corporate sponsors. His work includes service as a Chaplain, client mentor and advocate, as well as the sponsorship, grant program, and event coordinator.
Tamela Shawhan, Chaplain, Director of Operations, Lydia’s Home
330-807-8226 (mobile)
tamela@brokenchainsministry.org
Tamela is Director of Operations and Ohio Certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist at Lydia's Home, a certified Level II Recovery Residence for women located in the City of Green. Based on our successful Restorative Justice program, Lydia’s Home’s unique approach to transitional housing helps women successfully overcome situational, generational, and spiritual barriers to recovery and independence.
Kurt Cox, Chaplain, Men’s Outreach & Mentoring
kurt@brokenchainsministry.org
Kurt joined the team in 2012. With a master’s in Divinity from Liberty University, Kurt serves as a Chaplain and as Director of Men’s Outreach & Mentoring.
Renee Cox, Women’s Outreach & Mentoring
Kurt’s wife, Renee Cox, serves as the Director of Women’s Outreach & Mentoring. They help others overcome patterns of substance abuse and incarceration through Christian education and practices.
Our partners
In addition to Dennis, Tamela, Kurt, and Renee, our team includes a board of directors and volunteer mentors and prayer partners. Meet our Sponsors and Partners.
OUR BOARD
Elisa Raicevich, U.S. Attorney’s Office, U.S. Department of Justice, Board Chair
Kenneth Anderson, President & CEO, Pro Gram Engineering Corp.
William (Bill) Garmier, Vice President & CEO, Renewable Lubricants, Inc. & Owner, Garmier Farms
Dennis Shawhan, Executive Director, Broken Chains Ministry (Ex-Officio)