Rehumanizing The Imprisoned: A Reflection on Spiritual Retreats

Today’s US prison system is intended to be punitive, driven by the false notion that a way to avoid recidivism is to make offenders suffer while imprisoned.  In the harshness of life behind bars, many are separated from their support system, lose their sense of self-worth and  any hope of truly turning their lives around.  Little attention is given to promoting human dignity, rehabilitation or successful reintegration.

Thrive for Life Prison Project dares to challenge this system with an approach that seeks to rehumanize the incarcerated.  It begins by holding monthly retreats behind prison walls based on St. Ignatius of Loyola’s spiritual exercises.  Trained volunteers offer reflective tools designed to develop one’s self-awareness, restore human dignity and build confidence in one’s inherent value and potential.  God’s love and mercy are reflected in the personal accompaniment by the volunteers; hope and trust in a higher power are kindled regardless of faith tradition.

The individual’s renewed sense of Purpose becomes the necessary foundation for Thrive’s comprehensive strategy aimed at successful and permanent reentry. Upon release, motivated former offenders can become Resident Scholars at Ignacio House of Studies.  Here they benefit from Thrive’s continuity of care delivered through a suite of supportive services and a robust support system of dedicated staff, volunteers, and peers.  Focus is on achieving the critical drivers to successful reintegration: Higher Education, Gainful Employment, and Permanent Housing.   With Thrive for Life as partners from behind and beyond prison walls, formerly incarcerated individuals, once devoid of hope and ambition, become their own powerful agents of change.

Help turn a life around!  Join our volunteers by contacting info@thriveforlife.org

- Nina V., cherished volunteer and member of the Thrive for Life Team