What We Do
Did you know that one in six people in Ohio have a felony history and one in 175 are currently incarcerated? Our clients are our neighbors.
More than 2,000 people return from incarceration to the Summit County community each year.
Our mission is to improve public safety and support the local economy by reducing recidivism through faith-centered Restorative Justice programs.
Restorative Justice
Restorative Justice embraces a collaborative relationship with the judicial system that supports our clients through restoration of identity, faith, work, health, relationships and hope.
5 Program Pillars
Faith-centered Programs & Education.
Workforce Development.
Identity Restoration.
Mentoring.
Advocacy.
Mentoring
A Barna Research, Prison Fellowship, and New York University study found that most former offenders that are mentored will NOT commit another crime. Having a trusted mentor can help restore a sense of personhood to clients by connecting them to the world in a new way.
In addition to our experienced staff and volunteers, current and former successful clients help reassure, support, and guide others through the reentry and recovery process with strength, clarity, empathy, and accountability.
““He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When others are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.” ”
Programs
Urbean Cafe
Our award-winning Urbean Cafe workforce development program is a successful social business venture that has contributed more than $8.5 million in economic impact to Summit County since 2011. (July 2024)
Saving Ohio Taxpayer Dollars
To date, we have saved Ohio taxpayers more than $4 million in direct costs.*
The average recidivism rate for former offenders is around 82% within the first 10 years of release, and 43% within one year. But for Urbean Cafe participants of 90 days or more, it’s less than 2% – saving Ohio taxpayers an average of $26,000 per year for every empty state penitentiary bed. (July 2024)
Lydia’s Home
Founded in 2017, Lydia's Home is a Recovery Residence for women located in the City of Green. Lydia’s Home provides safe housing, educational curriculum, mentoring, and necessities for women overcoming substance abuse, incarceration, and human trafficking. This Restorative Justice program helps women address and overcome situational, physical, and spiritual barriers to recovery.
How Clients Give Back
With consistent employment income, clients reinvest in the community through:
Payment of restitution including fines, court costs, and child support.
Contribution to federal, state, and local income taxes.
Payment of rent and utility services.
Maintenance of identification, drivers license, and auto insurance.
Support of local grocers, retailers, and other community services.
““America is the land of the second chance - and when the gates of the prison open, the path ahead should lead to a better life.””
Faith
““Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.””
Sharing faith and Biblical teachings through weekly services.
Building relationships through visitation programs.
Facilitating bible study and small faith groups.
Mentoring men and women in regional correctional facilities.
““Some temptations are only overcome with the help of a partner who prays for you, encourages you, and holds you accountable.””
Advocacy
Once a client has satisfied his or her sentence and has completed any legal or court ordered requirements for release, we serve as advocates by assisting them in connecting with relevant members of the community offering a variety of services necessary to reenter society.
With other service organizations and with the support of our Partners, we work toward a common goal to ensure a positive, successful reentry process.
““You can develop a healthy, robust community that lives right with God and enjoy its results only if you do the hard work of getting along with each other, treating each other with dignity and honor.””
Identity Restoration
New birth certificate and social security card.
State identification or driver’s license.
Checking and savings accounts.
Financial literacy training.