Paul Bussert Named CJAMM’s 2021 Volunteer of the Year
CJAMM is proud to announce that Paul Bussert has been named as the Volunteer of the Year 2021, according to Scott Davis, CJAMM’s board chairman. Bussert has donated his time and talents to CJAMM ministries for the past eight years, working closely with recreational activities at New Day Camp and serving as lead dean this year. As associate pastor at Bixby United Methodist Church, he leads Bible studies at Exodus House Tulsa and tackles tough topics that millennials face in today’s culture. “The kids love him. The adults love him. He just has this amazing talent to connect with everyone he meets,” commented Keith Dobbs, CJAMM’s executive director.
Read Full StoryLorena’s Sunny Side Up Success
Want your eggs sunny side up? Or, would you like to have your life sunny side up? Say hello to Lorena, who recently graduated from the Criminal Justice and Mercy Ministries (CJAMM) program at Exodus House-Tulsa. One of her major accomplishments, after being released from incarceration and going through the program, was to find a job where she could have a good connection with her coworkers. Lorena secured a waitress position at Jimmy’s Egg in the greater Tulsa area. She’s pictured with her supervisor who came to celebrate her graduation from the program on July 14. The story goes that when interviewing for the position, Lorena shared her history and accomplishments. Her new boss said, “I don’t care about your past, I like the person you are today!” Sunny side up, for sure!
Read Full StoryHoratio’s CDL Driver Success
Six individuals graduated from the transitional program from incarceration to fresh start on July 14. The outdoor, socially-distancing, ceremony at Exodus House-Tulsa was attended by family, friends, and even seven former graduates. They came to encourage and support the new graduates, shared Site Director Estelle Turbyfill. Horatio (blue shirt) graduated as a resident from the Exodus House-Tulsa-Parsonage after meeting all the requirements of the program. A prior CDL driver, Horatio was even able to get his license back and has an important position now as a dump truck driver. It took him three attempts, but he’s proud to accomplish his goal, gleamed Turbyfill.
Read Full StoryTara’s Transformation Journey
There’s a Bible verse that could be the promise for Tara. It’s Philippians 1:6 (ESV) that says, “And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” Tara graduated from the Exodus House-Tulsa on July 14, a program designed to offer opportunities for ex-offenders to have a healthy, nurturing, and accountable environment where they may begin their life again. After receiving a commuted sentence, Tara had no place to go. A series of inspired events led her to Exodus House-Tulsa where she tackled the program and earned a prestigious position as a front desk associate at a large hotel. Because of her positive experience, Tara was a guest of Governor Kevin Stitt at his inauguration. Way to go, Tara. Keep shining!
Read Full StoryExodus House Helps Ex-Inmates Stay Out
USA Today featured CJAMM’s Exodus House program in a comprehensive multimedia report examining causes for recidivism in the American justice system. The article follows Courtney Pollard, a 38-year-old mother of five who found hope and healing through the program. Housing is a barrier to re-entry. So are job skills and emotional support. A religious-based group provides a fresh start. From 2008 to 2015, nearly 200 residents came through the Oklahoma City program. Of those participants, 13% were re-incarcerated. The national re-incarceration rate is 25% within about two-and-a-half years. The key to a program like this is “offering skills and lifestyle changes through education” and “teaching them how to think healthy.”
Read Full CoverageCampers on a Mission: Building Prayer Circle
A prayer circle with benches, flowers in planters, and a fire pit overlooking Lake Texoma now greets campers at Cross Point Camp. The serene spot to pray and meditate was built this summer by children attending New Day Camp I, a program related to the Conference’s Criminal Justice & Mercy Ministries (CJAMM). New Day is offered to Oklahoma children who have at least one incarcerated parent. During camp, 69 campers, ages 8 to 11, were divided into teams to do the work. The work took about a week, with each group of youngsters working a couple of hours a day. Building something like the prayer circle teaches the campers “to learn to serve others as well as to receive nurture,” said dean Debi Self. Doing a project to help others allows the campers “to feel that sense of servanthood.”
Read Full StoryLives Changed at New Day Camp
Each summer New Day Camp welcomes children (who have an incarcerated parent) to Lake Texoma to ride boats, take swimming lessons from an Olympic swim coach, bike, fish and so much more. We are happy to have 6 adult volunteers who attended the camp as campers to come back as adults to mentor those who are growing up with the obstacles they did. All of them will tell you that New Day Camp and CJAMM helped them become who they are today. This transformative experience breaks generational cycles and provides hope, community, and healing for vulnerable families.
Read Full StoryThe New Gate – Spring 2017
Our Spring 2017 newsletter edition featured comprehensive updates on CJAMM programs, success stories from participants, and insights into our mission to break generational cycles of incarceration and addiction. This issue highlighted the growing impact of our work across Oklahoma and the expanding partnerships that strengthen our community-based approach to criminal justice reform and mercy ministries.
Read Full NewsletterNew Gate – Summer 2024
Our summer 2024 newsletter highlights the incredible work being done through New Day Camp, Exodus House programs, and community partnerships. Read about the children and families whose lives are being transformed through CJAMM’s mission.
Read Full NewsletterNew Gate – Winter 2024
The winter 2024 edition features program updates, success stories from our transitional housing programs, and insights into how CJAMM continues to break generational cycles of incarceration and addiction.
Read Full NewsletterNew Gate – Summer/Fall 2023
This combined summer/fall 2023 issue covers the founding of Exodus House OKC, program expansions, and the continued impact of our faith-based approach to criminal justice reform and community healing.
Read Full NewsletterNew Gate – Spring 2023
Our spring 2023 newsletter announces two new board members and provides updates on CJAMM’s growing impact across Oklahoma. Learn about new partnerships and program developments that strengthen our mission.
Read Full NewsletterNew Gate – Fall 2022
The fall 2022 newsletter captures the heart of CJAMM’s work through stories of transformation, program highlights, and the ongoing efforts to provide hope and healing to those affected by the criminal justice system.
Read Full NewsletterExodus House Tulsa & Parsonage House Receive State Certification
A major milestone for CJAMM as both Exodus House Tulsa and Parsonage House receive official state certification, expanding our capacity to serve those transitioning from incarceration back into community life.
Read MoreOKC Incarceration Outreach Church Seeks Support
Pennsylvania Avenue Redemption Church, part of CJAMM’s ministry network, seeks community support to continue its vital mission serving incarcerated men and their families in Oklahoma City.
Read MoreUMC Justice Highlights CJAMM
The United Methodist Church’s General Board of Church and Society features CJAMM’s innovative approach to criminal justice reform, highlighting our comprehensive programs and community-based solutions.
Read MoreOklahoma City Area Benefit and Awards Dinner
Join CJAMM for our annual benefit dinner and awards ceremony, celebrating the individuals and organizations making a difference in criminal justice reform and supporting families affected by incarceration.
Read MoreCamp Changes Adults Too
New Day Camp blessed not only the 121 children who attended in 2016, whose parents were incarcerated, but also the adult volunteers who discovered how serving others can transform their own lives and perspectives.
Read MoreEx-offender Says Thanks for Grant to Exodus House
A heartfelt letter from Meagan Gaddis expresses gratitude for the Peace with Justice grant supporting Exodus House, demonstrating the real impact of CJAMM’s transitional housing and support services.
Read MoreA Life Touched by Criminal Justice and Mercy Ministries
A powerful personal account of how CJAMM’s programs provide hope, healing, and practical support to individuals and families navigating the challenges of reentry and community restoration.
Read MoreBreaking Out in the Spirit
Discover how CJAMM’s faith-based approach creates opportunities for spiritual transformation and community healing, breaking cycles of incarceration through the power of hope and redemption.
Read MoreHarlin Leads CJAMM as New Director
Introducing Kristen Harlin as CJAMM’s new director, bringing fresh vision and continued commitment to our mission of breaking generational cycles through comprehensive support and community engagement.
Read MoreCJAMM’s New Day Camp
Learn about our signature New Day Camp program, providing healing experiences for children with incarcerated parents. This transformative summer camp offers hope, community, and practical support for vulnerable families.
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