The Men’s Center has recently received an expanded call to provide our services inside the walls of minimum security prisons in Minnesota. Hank Bruns and Randy Genrich have represented the Men’s Center for several years in quarterly presentations at the Lino Lakes Correctional Facility. Tommy Jones and I attended the all day, first ever “Transitions Fair” at the Red Wing Correctional Facility this past June 28th. Men’s Center volunteers have been present at the Transitions Fairs in both Moose Lake and Faribault Correctional Facilities. Additionally, we have provided periodic presentations at the Rush City Correctional Facility.
The historical role of the Men’s Center is to serve men in accord with our mission in a manner that is not already replicated by other agencies in the community. Supporting men who are transitioning from incarceration into community living has been one such role. The issues and numbers continue to grow in this area. My intention is to gently ease the Men’s Center into an increasing role in meeting these needs and to have more collaborative efforts with like-minded organizations.
In this pursuit, I am soliciting more volunteers to provide these services. We are specifically in need of men who are willing to assume a role as a mentor for men who are presently in prison, and then to continue this role after their release. This would include corresponding via letters and occasionally visiting these men at their correctional facilities. Some incarcerated men are also able to afford infrequent phone calls if the mentor is open to that possibility.
If we are to do this, we will need to make the appropriate preparations. I will begin a new support group at the Men’s Center titled “Men Who Mentor.” Our first meeting will be on Monday, September 17th, from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. We may also consider special meetings regarding strategic planning and topical presentations.
I would appreciate your reflections and feedback regarding this important work. You may contact me through the Men’s Center phone or e-mail address. In service to and gratitude for the Men’s Center,
Bobby Schauerhamer,
Board Chair
