Since 2017, April has been Second Chance Month, a time to raise awareness of the opportunities for state, local, and community-based service providers to build meaningful second chances for our returning citizens. It is also a time to educate on the importance of removing barriers that hinder these members of our communities from re-entry into society after incarceration.

Statistics show that in Ohio, 1 in 25 families are impacted by the criminal justice system. In addition, 95% of those incarcerated are returning to our communities and are our neighbors.

Partners in Hope is a ministry of the Pandora UMC/Gilboa UMC Charge in Putnam County focused on breaking barriers for returning citizens, including paying fees or fines, securing driver’s licenses, securing employment and housing, to help them move into a new chapter of life in the community.

On April 23, from 7:00 to 9:00 PM at Ottawa Brewing Company, Partners in Hope will host “A Night of Hope and Second Chances”, a gala to raise awareness of the collateral consequences of a criminal conviction and support its mission. Hors d'oeuvres and a silent auction will be provided. Click here for more on "A Night of Hope and Second Chances".

For information about the Ohio Episcopal Area ministry to returning citizens, All In Community, click here.