WHY DO RECENTLY RELEASED PRISONERS NEED CIRCLES OF SUPPORT?
Understand that as a Circle of Support volunteer you are part of a much-needed and important endeavor. Given the fact that most people who go to prison are eventually released, it is important that communities be prepared to actively participate in efforts to assist returnees in becoming our Neighbors again. Scott (not his real name) was in prison for over six years. Madison-area Urban Ministry (MUM) matched Scott to a Circle of Support within a West-side congregation. The Circle of volunteers met with him regularly. When he got discouraged with employment, job layoffs, and even a stint of homelessness, this Circle encouraged him, gave him ideas, and helped him to stay focused. Now it’s been two years of success for Scott. He has completed a circle, but not the vicious circle of recidivism. Instead Scott has joined a Circle of Support himself to “be there” for someone else who was just released. The circle is completing itself. Scott is part of a circle of caring support for another. I
