Our Mission

Believing in the inherent goodness of every person and the impact of belonging, Spiritus Christi Prison Outreach empowers individuals who are justice-involved and homeless by providing stable housing, life skills, connections to treatment services, and a supportive community.

Our Vision

A healthy, safe, and equitable community, with abundant opportunities for all.

Spiritus Christi Prison Outreach believes in the inherent goodness, value, and strength of each person and that all people can lead fulfilling lives. We seek liberation from racism and discrimination for justice-involved individuals, especially those disproportionately represented in the criminal justice system, including Black, Indigenous, and/or People of Color, the LGBTQ+ community, and people affected by mental illness and/or substance use disorders. People from diverse religious* backgrounds are welcomed, as are their expressions of faith. We will ensure that people who have been impacted by the criminal justice system and homelessness can access a stable home, economic empowerment, opportunities for enrichment, healthy relationships, and treatment services.

At SCPO, individuals will find a safe haven in our warm and restorative communities, experiencing the healing and empowerment they need to confidently take their next step. With housing as our bedrock, we will be the first choice for re-entry programs. We will use evidence-based practices to support individual transformations and break cycles of incarceration, estrangement, and trauma. We will work alongside advocacy groups, elected officials, and neighborhoods in the Greater Rochester Area to demonstrate the effectiveness of alternatives to incarceration.

Passionate and knowledgeable staff will be champions of the SCPO vision and will be empowered by the life-changing work. We will reflect the communities we serve, with leaders of color at every level of our organization. Alumni will continue to be peer role models, returning as volunteers and staff to inspire residents with their courage and leadership. They will feel a sense of belonging in our homes long after they have moved on to living independently or reunified with their families. Our board will be made up of invested individuals with the passion, gifts, and expertise to work in the community and help us achieve our vision.

SCPO will continue to advocate for alternatives to incarceration to strengthen families and address the root causes of poverty and trauma. Together, we will build a healthy, safe, and equitable community, ensuring that people who have experienced the criminal justice system and homelessness have abundant opportunities for a fulfilling life.