Damascus Way Fall Campaign 2020

Damascus Way Re-Entry Center was established in 1979 and has over 45 years of experience serving those who have been previously incarcerated. We serve residents across the state in Dodge, Filmore, and Olmsted County. Specifically, we have programs in the Rochester area and Golden Valley. Over 70% of the residents we serve are BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color). Our staff mirrors the ethnicity of those we serve. 

The mission of Damascus Way Re-Entry Center is to provide re-entry leadership and services to residents leaving incarceration and rehabilitating back to the community. Our core service model supports residents in securing a stable housing pathway, acquiring employment and career-readiness skills, and making healthy community connections. By implementing these three key strategies, we aim to reverse the cycle of recidivism.

Over 70% of our residential clientele are persons of color who are very low income. These same people have been generationally impacted by poverty and are often undereducated and under-employable with very few places to find support that will help them gain stability in their lives. Through our person-centered re-entry planning, we work with each resident in our program to develop an individual re-entry plan. While in our program, we are able to connect residents with training opportunities, education tracks, and assist them in obtaining sustainable employment. Residents are also connected to outpatient supports, including alcohol treatment and mental health services. 

Our ultimate goal is for each resident to obtain a permanent housing plan after transitioning out of our facilities.