HPI at ORW

Be “Jesus with Skin On”: Volunteer as an Outside Sister at the Ohio Reformatory for Women

By Carrie Given, Program Director, Horizon Prison Initiative at ORW

For 25 years, the Horizon Prison Initiative has been a transformative force within the Ohio Reformatory for Women (ORW), providing incarcerated women with the opportunity to experience healing, spiritual growth, and community through faith-based mentorship. At the heart of this journey is a unique volunteer opportunity called the Outside Sisters program—and we are looking for women of faith who are ready to make a powerful difference.

What Is an Outside Sister?

Outside Sisters are women from the community who commit to walking alongside Horizon participants in small groups once a week. They’re not counselors or saviors. Their role is simply to be “Jesus with skin on”—offering presence, compassion, and consistent support through listening, sharing, and showing up with love.

The guiding principle is simple: Listen, listen. Love, love.

You don’t need special training or all the answers. Just a heart full of love and a desire to help call out the best in others. The Horizon program provides structure, prompts, and direction for each Thursday evening session. Your presence alone—your willingness to see, hear, and believe in these women—can be deeply transformative.

The Power of Presence

One of the most inspiring women at ORW is a 68-year-old participant who is finally preparing to re-enter society after serving 43 years. Her story began in pain and tragedy, but through faith and the support of consistent, compassionate volunteers, she found freedom within. When asked what the Outside Sisters meant to her, she said:

“I’m grateful for their compassion and kindness—that they would even consider me worthy of their time. Their presence in my life over the past 43 years has blessed me and changed me more than any of the many groups I’ve participated in. Never judging, just loving me. They come into an environment that is grim and hopeless to offer light, love, and acceptance—just like Jesus. To me, they have been Jesus with skin on.”

When and How to Serve

The Outside Sisters program meets Thursday evenings from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m., from September through May. A weekly commitment is ideal, but even volunteering twice a month (either 1st & 3rd Thursdays or 2nd & 4th Thursdays) allows you to make a lasting impact.

If you're interested in becoming an Outside Sister, or want to learn more:

Contact Carrie Given
Phone: (937) 707-3380
Email: c.given430400@gmail.com