Volunteer Mentorship Initiative

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About VMI

What is the Volunteer Mentorship Initiative?

The Volunteer Mentorship Initiative (VMI) is a statewide effort -- between the Governor's Faith-Based and Community Initiative and the TN Department of Correction -- to restore hope and change lives by connecting Tennesseans who are incarcerated with trained volunteer mentors. In partnership with trusted reentry organizations, VMI equips mentors to build meaningful relationships and walk alongside participants—both before and after their release—as they prepare to rejoin their communities with purpose, dignity, and support.

United. Mobilize. Serve.

Led by the TN Governor's Faith-Based and Community Initiative & The TN Department of Correction

The Governor’s Volunteer Mentorship Initiative (VMI) creates a support system that identifies and addresses gaps and obstacles returning citizens face during reentry by matching external Mentors with incarcerated Mentees to provide guidance, support, and resource direction throughout the reentry process.

The joint-initiative with the Tennessee Department of Correction (TDOC) is focused on creating sustainable models for organizations and individuals to impact reentry through impactful Mentoring.

The Governor's Faith-Based and Community Initiative established the Justice Impacted Adivsory Council to provide strategic advice, lived experience perspectives, and recommendations to The Volunteer Mentorship Initiative (VMI) which is aimed at supporting justice-impacted individuals through mentorship and connection to community resources. The Council will also help inform government and reentry programs by identifying barriers, advocating for impactful changes, and ensuring that services and policies are responsive to the needs of individuals returning from incarceration.