The program matches a mentor with a resident (aka mentee) who is within six months of his or her release date. The mentor and mentee then continue this relationship for six months after release. Since 2011, KDOC's mentoring program has assisted close to 9,000 individuals.

There are any number of  benefits that come from forming a strong relationship with someone in the community prior to release. The mentor becomes part of a critical support team in those early days following release. This can include helping to find items for basic needs, such toothbrushes/toothpaste, blankets/sheets, laundry baskets, toilet paper, cleaning products and dishes for those going into apartments. 

For one individual released in early January, the care and consideration shown to him (selecting clothes in his size and delivering them to him, providing personal hygiene items, etc.) prompted a thank you to the mentoring staff and program coordinators. In a recent update to KDOC staff, Kansas Secretary of Corrections Jeff Zmuda shared the message: “I just want to thank you from the bottom of my heart and bless you for what you’ve done for me it was a fantastic thing. I needed it all so bad. I just wanted you to know that my prayers and thoughts are with you today. Thank you.”

If you are interested in learning more about KDOC mentoring opportunities, please email KDOC_Pub@ks.gov or call  (785) 296-3317.