How Volunteers Grow Alongside Participants
Service That Transforms Both Sides At PEP, volunteers walk into prison units expecting to teach. They often leave feeling like they’ve learned something profound themselves. Whether mentoring a business pitch, sharing career insights, or simply listening, volunteers discover that transformation is not a one-way street. It’s mutual, and it’s powerful. The Role Volunteers Play PEP […]
What PEP Volunteers Learn from the Experience
Transformation Is a Two-Way Street While PEP is focused on equipping incarcerated men for life after prison, many volunteers will tell you the program has changed their lives, too. Whether they’re seasoned executives or first-time mentors, volunteers consistently walk away with a new sense of purpose and perspective. It’s not just about giving; it’s about […]
Volunteering with PEP: What Makes Someone Great at It
More Than Just Showing Up PEP volunteers are more than spectators, they’re catalysts for change. Whether they serve as business plan advisors, character coaches, or pitch judges, their impact stretches far beyond a single visit. But what makes a PEP volunteer truly effective? It’s not about credentials or business experience. It’s about presence, humility, and […]
How to Talk to Kids About Incarceration
Why It Matters When a loved one is in prison or is preparing to return home, children can feel confused, scared, or guilty. Caregivers and parents play a crucial role in helping them understand what is happening and process their emotions. Honest, age-appropriate conversations build trust and support. Start with Clarity and Honesty Use simple […]
How to Write Letters to Inmates: Connection Matters
Why Letters Matter A letter can do more than pass the time. For someone in prison, it can be a source of encouragement, reflection, and hope. In a setting where contact with the outside world is limited, a thoughtful message carries real weight. Whether you are writing to a friend, family member, or someone you […]
The Importance of Mentorship in Reentry Programs
A Key to Long-Term Success For individuals reentering society after incarceration, the transition can be overwhelming. From navigating housing and employment to rebuilding family relationships, the first months after release are filled with challenges. One of the most effective tools for overcoming those challenges is mentorship. Mentorship creates a support structure that provides not only […]
5 Ways to Support PEP in 2025
Make 2025 a Year of Impact If you’re looking for a way to create real change in 2025, the Prison Entrepreneurship Program offers a variety of ways to get involved. Whether you want to give, volunteer, or spread the word, your support directly helps men in prison build new futures through leadership, education, and entrepreneurship. […]
FAQ: Can You Start a Business from Prison?
Can You Start a Business While Incarcerated? Yes, but with limitations. In most prison systems, incarcerated individuals are not allowed to officially register or operate a business in their own name while serving time. However, many people begin developing business ideas, plans, and strategies during incarceration. Programs like the Prison Entrepreneurship Program (PEP) help participants […]
