Mentorship Changes Everything
The journey home from prison is filled with unknowns, and one of the most powerful tools for navigating it is a strong mentor. But you don’t have to be a business expert or justice professional to make an impact.
You just have to show up.
Traits That Matter Most
Great reentry mentors tend to have five things in common:
- Consistency: They stay involved even when things get tough.
- Empathy: They listen without judgment.
- Accountability: They help people keep their commitments.
- Encouragement: They notice and celebrate small wins.
- Vision: They see who someone is becoming, not just who they were.
Mentors Walk Beside, Not Ahead
Reentry isn’t about telling someone what to do. It’s about offering support as they make their own choices. The best mentors walk beside their mentees, offering perspective, not pressure.
Everyone Has Something to Offer
If you’ve ever navigated a major life transition, faced a setback, or built something from scratch, you have something to offer a returning citizen. Lived experience, encouragement, and time are valuable currencies in this space.
Final Thought
Reentry is not a solo journey. With the right support, people coming home can thrive, and mentors are a key part of that equation.
