From the Gate of the Jail to the Door of the Church

From the Gate of the Jail to the Door of the Church
The Rotary speaker on Friday February 14th was Ben Connaroe from PRO Mentors – Helping Men Find Their Way After Incarceration.
PRO Mentors is a Christian mentoring program for prisoners released in San Diego County. The PRO Mentors Christian Reentry Program was pioneered by Mr. Connaroe in 2013. This unique program connects male inmates with a Christian mentor while the inmate (or “PRO”) is still in custody. The mentor then continues to meet with the PRO after release, to help enfold him back into the community. Beginning with just six inmates in one class at East Mesa Reentry Facility in January 2013, the program now has two classes at EMRF and one class at the Vista Jail. Their aim is Restitution, Reconciliation and Reentry.
           
Prisoners have to come to class at least three times before talking to a mentor. They have to be mentored for at least six months before one can see change occur. The emphasis is on changing Behavior, Values and beliefs. Over 400 inmates have attended the classes since they began, and over 100 have been involved after release. Over 70 men from 35 different churches have been trained as mentors. Women prisoners are referred to outside services.
           
For more information please contact: Ben Connaroe / PRO Mentors, PO Box 2134, Vista, CA 92085
           
Phone: 619-466-3177   Email: bconnaroe@hebrews13-3online.com  www.pro-mentors.com