Frequently Asked Questions

JUMPSTART SC is a South Carolina based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to restoring the lives of inmates on the inside and outside of prison in South Carolina. We accomplish our mission by addressing the spiritual, educational, employment, healthcare, housing, and family relationship needs of current and former prisoners and assisting with their re-entry into society.

In 2008, a small group of volunteers, supported by the chaplain at Tyger River Correctional Institution, began ministering to the men inside. Most were retired, while two of our founding members worked night jobs (one in janitorial office work and the other in pizza delivery) to provide for their families while answering God's call to prison ministry. Together with their wives, they gathered to pray, share challenges, and explore how they could partner in the mission of “setting the captives free”—and from those humble beginnings, the vision for JUMPSTART was born.

Inmates can apply to participate two years before their release date.

The JUMPSTART program begins with a 40-week intensive discipleship process that includes a class curriculum focused on transforming lives through:

• Worship
• Fellowship
• Discipleship
• Mentoring
• Serving others
• Living with a purpose
• Re-entry education

The program uses unique, peer-to-peer assessments that ensures accountability and drives growth. The program stresses daily living out of our core values of accountability, responsibility, and submission to authority.

Upon completion of the 40-week inside program and release from prison, the 12-month outside program provides participants a Christ-centered program with:

• Low-cost, safe and stable housing
• Access to free physical, mental, and dental healthcare
• Recovery program for chemical dependency
• Individual case management with mentoring
• Financial stability training
• Assistance securing permanent and meaningful employment at a living wage
• Transportation to service providers, employment, and shopping

JUMPSTART has fifty participants on the outside at any given time and is currently at capacity.

JUMPSTART SC has a 96% success rate among participants who complete both the Inside and Outside Programs. This means that 96% of graduates do not return to prison within three years of their release.

Successful participants are:

• Employed in positions that provide a living wage and opportunities for growth
• Living in stable housing and maintaining consistency in their daily lives
• Active members of a local church, growing in faith and fellowship
• Practicing sound financial principles and living within their means
• Connected to a healthy support network that encourages accountability and growth
• Often serving as leaders within their families and communities
• Living surrendered to Christ and walking faithfully in God’s purpose for their lives

Our focus will be to put in place the necessary infrastructure and staff for JUMPSTART’s long term organizational growth and sustainability. Our plan includes “Restoration Village Upstate” (a JUMPSTART Community), a community unlike any other. The village will provide transitional housing for those re-entering society from prison in a community setting that prepares them to be productive citizens. Included will be short and long-term housing along with support staff buildings and village facilities.

The three T’s sum up how you can help:

• Time: Mentors are vital to successful re-entry into society. Godly men and women can make a big difference in an ex-offender’s life. You can sign up as a volunteer.
• Talent: What is your area of influence? What do you do well? Where is your heart? What skills or gifts can you offer?
• Treasure: There are several financial giving options available.