F.A.Q.
In this document “Arizona Resource Ministries” will be referred to as “ARM”.
Is there information available at no cost to help re-entry when coming out of prison?
Yes, ARM is constantly updating referral lists of Resources and Services.
What are the Resources and Services categories provided by ARM?
Employment, Housing, Food, Health/Medical/Treatment, Legal, Helpful Phone #’s, Women/Children/Families. (more categories to come)
Does ARM have housing referrals for sex offenders?
Yes, we have referrals lists which include all felons.
Does ARM house people coming out of prison?
No, but we do have referral lists with places that do house individuals, plus lists for shelters.
Does ARM have any Resources and Services referrals for current inmates?
Yes, ARM is expanding and developing this area. Many of the referrals can be contacted while an individual is still inside.
Is there any way an inmate can help with ARM as it expands to help others?
Yes, contact us and let us know your willingness to volunteer and help.
Here are some, not all, of the ways individuals may help the ministry.
- Prayer Warriors
- Tell others about ARM
- Suggestions & New Ideas
- Donations
- Write short pieces that uplift others, instruct others, guide people through their prison experience and/or their spiritual life for possible use on our website.
Is ARM looking for volunteers who are not incarcerated?
- Yes, ARM has need of volunteers to help the ministry.
- Please contact us for more information.
Where does ARM serve?
ARM is in the heart of downtown Phoenix. At present, most of the referrals of Resources and Services are in Maricopa County. However, we are presently engaged in an expansion program with a goal of covering every county in the entire state of Arizona with referrals for Resources and Services.
Is ARM interested in ideas and suggestions regarding its’ expansion and the needs of people coming out of prison?
Absolutely, the Bible states, “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but he who heeds counsel is wise”. Prov. 12:15 NKJV
Do you believe it is becoming easier for someone to successfully re-enter into society?
Yes, if a person is willing to commit to doing what is right, it is completely up to the individual. There will be bumps along the way, but that is true in life for anyone. Things are changing for the better. There are companies, housing, and people in general who are second chance friendly. It is not up to the state, probation, or parole, it is up to the individual coming out.
“Your attitude will determine your altitude”. Unknown
Are the horror stories I have heard on the yard about what happens when you get out, true?
Most of the stories you have heard on the yard are started by people who have come back for another go around. It is interesting that it is never their fault, it is always someone else to blame! Many say it’s being in Arizona or it’s probation/parole, or it’s the people with whom they associated. Some even say it’s the public that won’t accept you. Well, none of these entities committed the crime, the individual did! So, accept responsibility for the crime and the consequences that come along with it and move on. Someone once said, “5% of the people will hate you and 5% will love and help you, while 90% of the people don’t care and are just going about their lives”. I believe these figures are true for everyone, not just people coming out of prison.
What can I do to assure my success when I get out?
There are no guarantees as it is all up to you. Here are a few things to help in the process.
- Participate in SOETP (Sex Offender Educational Training Program) programs you have available.
- Participate in all classes offered like Anger Management, Domestic Violence, Cultural Diversity, etc., even if you feel you don’t need them.
- Associate with people who build you up not lead you astray.
- Seek communications with people on the outside who care about your personal success.
- Do not communicate with anyone on the inside or outside who is headed in the wrong direction with their life.
- Get rid of negative attitudes about treatment, probation/parole including probation/parole officers, surveillance officers, police or other officials, rules, etc., remembering, they did not commit your crime, you did.
- Develop positive attitudes regarding your successful re-entry regardless of whatever comes your way.
Do you have a checklist of things to get done when I first get out?
Yes, it is on the ARM website.
Does ARM have a newsletter available?
Not at present, but we are considering this for the near future, at least by email for those on the outside.
Do you have a Pen-Pal or Mentors program to help me navigate prison, re-entry and life in general?
Not at present, but we are looking into this area for the future. We are seeking referrals in this area.