Freedom Challenge prison ministry to expand
Don Starnes
By Patty Baker
Freedom Challenge is a Teen Challenge ministry working in the Hutchinson, Kansas, Correctional Facility for over four years. In this time, 99 men have completed the eight-month program. The lives of the inmates, their families, officers and even administrative staff at the facility are being impacted by the life-changing power of the biblical life-skill principles being taught.
Since its implementation in 2005, Freedom Challenge has shared 2,000 square feet of space with other programs. Now, Freedom Challenge has been offered 5,500 square feet of space to expand to work with more inmates and add programming for alumni of the program. This opportunity will allow for computer training, leadership training, seminars and worship band development. Freedom Challenge will begin the necessary renovations as soon as the funds are raised.
Don Starnes, U.S. missionary and president of Freedom Challenge, says, “The passion of the staff is to do more than teach biblical life-skills. They desire that the Truth will transform the inmates into disciples, ministers and missionaries in the communities where they will live.”
Warden Sam Cline praised the ministry. “They have very much become a part of what we are trying to accomplish here with our inmate population. They have established a strong presence in our facility and are committed to helping guide inmates through their spiritual journey and ultimately affecting changes in their behaviors. The dedication and belief in what they are doing is contagious. There is no doubt they are affecting the lives of some of our inmates. I look forward to having their continued presence at this facility and am confident they will continue to touch the lives of many.”
Inmates are typically involved in Freedom Challenge five and one-half hours every weekday, taking courses such as Now That I’m A Christian, Temptations and Attitudes. Students are encouraged to set goals and make choices with their time. For example, rather than watch television or take a nap, they are encouraged to engage in a more worthwhile activity such as Bible reading or memorizing scripture.
In a letter to Freedom Challenge, Deputy Warden Marge VanHoose wrote, “Many, including myself, were skeptical and wondered what this new program was all about. As the weeks, months and years passed, many members of the staff have had an opportunity to visit and/or work in their area. We have come to realize how encouraging it is to see attitudes, behaviors and lives of inmates change as they progress through the program. Freedom Challenge is making a positive impact on the inmates who participate in the program, and continue in the never ending journey of life-change. It is my hope that Hutchinson Correction Facility and Freedom Challenge will enjoy a long-term, fruitful relationship.”