Genesis Project Executive Summary, 2011

You have all heard of the initiative BASICS in Milwaukee has committed to called the Genesis Project.  Most of you have attended informational meetings, met with our team, and perhaps given advice to us regarding our intentions.  The Genesis team wants to take this opportunity to thank you emphatically, and let you know that these personal exchanges have been instrumental in helping us formulate what we feel is a program that will comprehensively serve the needs of our Milwaukee citizens returning from prison. 

A large portion of what we have accomplished in the past year has been researching, reviewing and visiting other programs that serve ex-offenders throughout the nation.   Through extensive analysis we have discerned key components that are proven to ensure a continuum of success for Genesis program participants, not only during the eighteen months of program following release, but enduring through the rest of their Christ-centered lives.  The Genesis Program has three main components, which have been modified thanks to the affirmed advice of many like you.  

1. Programming
   We believe that the only way ex-offenders can truly have a transformed life, is to lay aside the old self and be transformed and renewed in the faith and power of Jesus Christ. Beginning up to one year prior to release and continuing the day they are picked up from prison, each participant will partner with a mentor who will minister to them spiritually, emotionally and physically, as they make the difficult transition form prison. The Genesis Project has an extensive network of ministries we have partnered with to provide support and services, such as life skills and discipleship training that our participants need to become successful. We have also engaged churches to be intimately involved in the renewal process through active ministry to our participants and their families. Mentors, service providing ministries and churches are the vital components employed by the Genesis Project in the complete healing, rehabilitation, and restoration of each of our returning citizens.   We ask for your continued prayer and affirmation for this foundational component of our project.
   
   
2. Housing
   After an extensive evaluation of Gray’s Conference Center this past summer, we found that undertaking such a large facility was too costly and would detract from our focus on the success of the returning citizen. We are actively looking for a residential property that would house five to ten program participants.  Our initial intent is to rent or lease the property, until the proof of concept of our program is  proven. We are firmly committed to assessment and modification of our program to ensure the success of our participants before we make a capital commitment.  Any resources, referrals or ideas on attaining housing for Genesis Program participants would be greatly appreciated
   
   
3. Job Creation
   Our research on employment for ex-offenders has shown us that the most effective way to attain, but more importantly sustain, employment for felons is to create businesses where they can be self-employed.  These businesses are envisioned to be one to two person operations. We have dedicated many resources into designing a work program for Genesis participants.  We are starting a furniture and appliance repair shop, and a retail store to sell our finished products. We will provide training, certifications and licensing while developing the skills necessary to prolong employment in our community.  Our goal in this is to empower ex-offenders to gain the knowledge and understanding needed to successfully own and operate a business of their own.  Any support, counsel or connections in small business start-up would facilitate us greatly at this time.