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R/6 Mentoring Program
What is R/6?
The R/6 Mentoring Program is an extension of the Kentucky Baptist Convention’s ongoing prison ministry. Its goal is to help ex-offenders become self sufficient upon release from prison.
Through personal relationships and church support, R/6 seeks to guide former offenders in discipline, discipleship and devotion. Mentors from support churches help accomplish this by providing prayer, counsel and accountability for these individuals.
Why R/6?
- Many lack necessary care and support during the difficult transition.
- The first 30-60 days after release are critical for establishing new patterns.
- No assistance is given to ex-offenders through the state upon release.
- Ex-offenders often do not have family or friends willing to help.
- Released prisoners typically don’t have even the basic necessities to live.
What are the program’s goals?
There are six specific goals for the program:
- Release – mentoring begins prior to release from incarceration.
- Re-entering – counsel and assistance helps the former offender establish a new life.
- Re-adjustment – focus is placed on building family relationships and dealing with everyday issues.
- Relationships – a sense of belonging develops through involvement in small groups and church fellowships.
- Responsibility – mentors provide aid, but the individual must accept responsibility for his/her actions.
- Reward – the individual can now enjoy new relationships, a solid foundation, family, friends, and hope.
Who can help?
Churches of any size can make a difference by becoming a support church. Participating churches commit to an initial 12-week support period, and each church agrees to provide three mentors for each ex-offender.
R/6 screens all program applicants and selects only prisoners who are serious about life change. These individuals are then partnered with mentors who help them find:
- Employment
- A place to stay
- Transportation
- Food and clothing
- Other basic essentials
Ex-offenders commit to attending church three times a week and regular meetings with their mentors. Emphasis is placed on taking personal responsibility for one’s choices.
Leadershiop
Coordinator: Gary King, program director, 4160 US Highway 27 South, Stanford, KY, 40484
Call: (606) 365-7123
E-mail: dom@lcbaky.org
