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ABOUT US
OUR ORGANIZATION
OUR MISSION
The mission of SIRD is to improve the lives of those who are seeking change, by creating an environment conductive to the successful transition from prison life to whole life in their communities.
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OUR VISION
Our vision is to equip every ex-offender who enters our doors with the vision, tool, and the opportunity necessary to lead productive lives in their homes and communities.
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SIRD was founded by Minister Timothy Hunter in 2005, with the sole purpose of designing a program to combat addiction and help those impacted by the justice system. Minister Hunter (an ex-offender) understands the challenges related to addiction and coming out of incarceration. He has developed a passion for helping men successfully re-enter society.
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The SIRD team recognizes the inconsistencies within the prison system regarding counseling, treatment, employment and housing for ex-offenders. While many individuals desire a fresh start, the overwhelming rejection and lack of support they face often discourages them and pushes them back to the old lifestyle.
FACTS:
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Approximately 25,000 formerly incarcerated people return to Philadelphia annually.
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Former offenders earned 53% of the median U.S. wage. That means on average ex-offenders made $10,000 vs. average U.S. worker who made $19,000.
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Many formerly incarcerated people are disproportionately uneducated and unprepared for work.
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As many as 80% of prisoners are without health insurance upon returning to their communities.
The hole is hard to climb out of even for the most motivated.​​
SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM
Unless better efforts are made to assist thousands of inmates being released from Pennsylvania correctional institutions each year, there's a high chance a significant number of them will return to prison. Data shows that 64% of former offenders re-offend within three years of release.
It is our desire to spread the love of God through the enrichment activities and support services that will be offered to ex-offenders through SIRD.
Our programs will inspire and encourage individuals to work hard and to set goals to work towards. SIRD program will empower the participants to find jobs, stay away from crime, and successfully reintegrate into society,
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Our staff, Board of Directors and volunteers come from various professions in health, human services, spiritual and financial backgrounds.
MEET THE FOUNDER
Hello!
Thank you so much for supporting our mission! ​
As someone who has personally navigated the challenges of incarceration in my youth, I am now a successful business owner, founder of this organization and an ordained Minister of the Gospel with a deep understanding of the incredible importance in providing resources and support to individuals with similar struggles. This fuels my passion for mentoring, guiding, and sharing valuable resources with those who have been formerly incarcerated or are battling substance abuse. ​
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I need you to understand that some of these ex-offenders are amazing innovative individuals who's life took a wrong turn, and now they want to make something of themselves. So it is important for us to support and assist them with job training, housing, and support groups; empowering them to overcome the challenges of reintegration and creating fulfilling lives.
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I truly appreciate your continued support!
Timothy Hunter
Founder and Chairman of SIRD
