OUR STORY
THE STORY OF NEXT CHAPTER REENTRY PROJECT
Next Chapter was founded in 1991 when Andy Kilen began volunteering at the Olmsted County Jail, leading weekly Bible studies. During these sessions, it became evident that many inmates required additional support after release. This need is underscored by statistics showing that two-thirds of released prisoners are rearrested within three years.
In response to this pressing need, and following extensive prayer and planning, the Rochester Network for Reentry was established. This initiative brought together released prisoners and church members for weekly Bible study and support meetings. From these initial gatherings, Next Chapter Ministries emerged, becoming a registered non-profit organization in 2002. Since then, we have significantly impacted the lives of many and seen a significant reduction in recidivism rates, with only a third of our participants being rearrested, demonstrating the effectiveness of our programs but also a testament to the power of community and faith.
Today, we operate as the Next Chapter Reentry Project, which has grown to include seven homes for men, women, and families. Each home is not just a shelter, but a tailored environment designed to address the unique trauma experienced by our participants. Our services extend beyond the home environment, engaging with the broader systems that our participants encounter.
Our Mission
At Next Chapter, we take a holistic, gospel-centered approach to reentry, addressing the spiritual, physical, social, and emotional needs of people impacted by the cycle of incarceration. In collaboration with our partners, we aim to increase reintegration success and reduce recidivism rates.
Our Vision
To be a national leader in reentry, redefining the narratives surrounding formerly incarcerated persons by dismantling barriers, delivering essential resources, and advocating for expanded rights.
Our VALUES
Collaboration
Collaboration is at the heart of what we do. We diligently work with partners, including employers, housing providers, and mental health professionals, to provide essential services to individuals impacted by incarceration.
Build Lasting Relationships
Relationships for Next Chapter Reentry begin during the program and continue for a lifetime. We believe it is essential to maintain a connection with those we serve that extends beyond the program's duration.
Build a Leadership Pipeline
Next Chapter believes in the importance of establishing a leadership pipeline. We achieve this by developing mentorship programs and maintaining alumni engagement. This paves the way for those who complete our program to return in leadership roles and serve others during their transition to the community.
Restorative Justice
At Next Chapter, we view restorative justice as a transformative approach that fosters accountability, forgiveness, and healing for everyone involved. Our commitment to this philosophy is reflected in our diverse range of programs, which include conflict resolution initiatives designed to facilitate open communication and understanding, meditation practices that promote inner peace and emotional clarity, and community accountability circles that encourage collective support and responsibility. Through these thoughtfully crafted solutions, we aim to create a meaningful impact in the lives of our residents, guiding them toward a path of reconciliation and personal growth.
Triune Approach to Restoration
Our slogan, "Refine, Restore, Reacclimate," reflects the transformative journey of our reentry program.
**Refine** emphasizes the critical importance of building a solid spiritual foundation, which empowers individuals to grow and thrive.
**Restore** focuses on healing the essential relationships with children and family, recognizing that while this journey begins with God, it extends to crucial connections with loved ones.
**Reacclimate** is where we direct our efforts, facilitating a seamless transition back into society, as measured by the number of participants who obtain meaningful employment and stable housing, which is vital for lasting success.
