- Description
A unique partnership of secular and faith-based institutions, Amachi recruits volunteers from congregations to mentor children of prisoners. During its first two years in operation, the program generated more than 550 adult-child matches. This report explores the implications of the Amachi experience for policymakers, funders, and others interested in starting similar programs. It describes the Amachi model and traces the steps involved in moving from plan to reality, focusing on approaches for recruiting children, pastors, and volunteers. It also examines mentors' successes and challenges, along with the program infrastructure designed to support and monitor matches. In addition, the report presents data on program quality and effectiveness.