Mission and Core Values
- Compassionate Support: Our mission focuses on delivering compassionate support to incarcerated and at-risk youth facing challenges.
- Empowerment Focus: We aim to empower youth through tailored programs that enhance their understanding of the gospel of Jesus Christ, as well as practical life, career and financial literacy training.
- Core Values: Integrity, respect, and service are fundamental values guiding all our initiatives and actions.
Who We Serve and Why
Serving Vulnerable Populations
We provide mentorship and life-skills training for young men in the juvenile justice system, focusing on discipleship and personal development to help them build a successful life after incarceration.
Commitment to Positive Change
The ministry is motivated by a dedication to creating lasting, positive impact in the lives of those we serve through the power of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
History of True North Ministry: Our Journey
Since our founding in 2002, under the leadership of Becky Retzer, Suzie Ferrick, Jim Rios, Duncan Othen, Jim Love and Bill Heitman, TNM has sought to positively impact the lives of youth in our region. From our work at the Summit County Juvenile Correctional Facility in Akron, Ohio to the Farm, Accelerate and our current area of ministry focus, Indian River Juvenile Correctional Facility in Massillon, Ohio, we seek to offer without bias the saving hope of Jesus.
We are actively engaged in building disciples of Christ and strategically investing in the lives of young people, building a foundation of faith, hope and living skills as we strive to obey Jesus’ command to make disciples of all nations.
Programs and Services Offered
Detention Center Ministry Outreach
Monthly outreach programs at Indian River Juvenile Correctional Facility in Massillon, Ohio that challenge and encourage Christ-centered living and discipleship.
Educational Programs
Life, career and financial literacy training programs aim to empower individuals with knowledge and skills for success upon release from detention.
Additional Assistance
Assistance programs provide backpacks, Bibles and other resources to youth leaving detention programs.
Volunteers
Volunteer Spotlight
Roles and Responsibilities of Volunteers
- Direct Service Delivery: Volunteers provide hands-on assistance directly to incarcerated and at-risk youth, playing a crucial role in program execution.
- Administrative Support: Volunteers support essential back-office functions, ensuring smooth operation and program sustainability.
- Grant Writing: We can benefit from your talents in seeking and applying for funds to expand outreach.
Ways to Get Involved
- Volunteer: Contribute by dedicating personal time to Indian River Correctional Facility and life, career and financial literacy training.
- Event Participation: Engage by joining events designed to raise awareness and foster community involvement.
- Professional Skills Offering: Share expertise and skills to help advance programs and enhance outreach efforts.
How to Donate or Support
- Financial Contributions: Monetary donations provide essential funding to sustain and expand ministry programs at the Indian River Juvenile Correctional Facility in Massillon, Ohio. We welcome financial gifts from individuals, Donor Advised Funds, private foundations and other philanthropic sources, including Charitable Gift Annuities, Charitable Lead Trusts, Charitable Remainder Trusts and life insurance bequests. Please call us for assistance.
- In-Kind Donations: Donations of goods and services support practical needs and enhance ministry outreach efforts.
- Sponsorships: Sponsorships provide ongoing support and partnership opportunities to boost ministry impact.
Next Steps for Prospective Volunteers and Partners
Application Process
Understand the steps involved in applying to become a volunteer or partner with the organization.
Orientation Sessions
Attend orientation sessions to learn about the mission, values, and expectations of the ministry.
Team Connection
Connect with the ministry team to build relationships and understand how to contribute effectively.
Together We Make a Difference
Shared Commitment: True North Ministry succeeds because of collective dedication and shared goals among its leadership, supporters and volunteers.
Invitation to Join: We appreciate your consideration to join us in making a meaningful difference together. Please visit our Volunteer and Donation tabs to see how you can join us.