Onesimus Workbook

A PPENDIX • 59

A PPENDIX 7 Tips on Transitioning Reentry Leaders into Outside TUMI Satellites Rich Esselstrom

1. We try to make our TUMI classes consistent with what prisoners experienced on the inside. Students coming from prison will make comparisons between the two locations. At first, they will prefer the prison setting, having fond memories of their experience. They may even talk of how great their prison mentors were! Don’t take it personally. You will grow on them! One comparison will be that we allow take home finals. This will surprise them. They will see this as being easy and maybe somewhat lax. Be prepared for this and remind them that it is closed book. This may or may not be an issue. It is just something to be aware of. 2. Be aware and maybe study prison culture. I have found some former inmates really like to talk and even be somewhat confrontational and dogmatic with certain issues. I think this stems from the fact that they need to know what they know on the inside and defend it. Don’t let any one student dominate the conversation. 3. My experience has been that some former inmates who want to take classes won’t be able to follow through for various reasons. They have a strong desire to get married. They are looking for and finding work. They move around. They don’t have transportation. This is a big one. I would encourage the mentors not to provide transportation but to link them up with other students who they can carpool with or use public transportation. If they want to be there, they will make this happen. 4. These guys are a blessing, so welcome them into your class warmly. Hook them up with other students. TUMI can be a very valuable resource for them to help them thrive on the outside as Christian leaders. They will be very appreciative for the opportunity to continue their training and equipping with us. Don’t treat them any differently and watch them grow! 5. Follow up on them quickly!!! Let them come and sit in on classes and feel a part of things until they can start a class from the beginning. These guys need Christians who are leaders and friends. Where better to find them than TUMI and the church?