TDOC Calls on Memphis for Help

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Everyone likes to complain about the problem, but who wants to get involved?  That’s a question the Tennessee Department of Correction is issuing to Memphis area residents as the need for volunteers becomes urgent.  “Something needs to be done to change the cycle of incarceration in Tennessee,” said TDOC Volunteer Services Director Richard Dixon.  “Thousands of people leave Tennessee prisons with no job, no money, no family and without places to live.  This increases their chances of re-offending and returning to prison.  No one wants to see that.”

The Tennessee Department of Correction is now calling on volunteers in the Memphis area to help turn things around.  Through the Good Samaritan Network, volunteers can join other non-profit, civic and faith-based members who have agreed to provide services to individuals upon their release from prison.

“This ground breaking project has the potential to help over 5,600 people.  Something has to be done,” said Dixon.  “Our goal is to have members of the Good Samaritan Network in each county.  Unfortunately, there are currently no members of the network in the Memphis/Shelby County area.  I’m confident that will change and that is why we’re holding a gathering in Memphis this week to seek help.”

To learn more about the Good Samaritan Network visit http://state.tn.us/correction/rehabilitative/goodsamaritan.html