The fallout of white-collar crime charges can devastate lives and leave individuals and their families grappling with uncertainty, but a groundbreaking initiative by non-profit Progressive Prison Ministries is offering a new kind of support. The White Collar Support Group™ is challenging the status quo and providing a free alternative to the traditional prison consultant industry. This unique, free resource is not just changing the way individuals facing white-collar charges prepare for their journey through the legal system; it’s transforming the landscape of support services by emphasizing community, understanding, and spiritual guidance.
Founded in 2016 by Jeff Grant, an ordained minister with a personal history of white-collar conviction, and his wife, Lynn Springer, the White Collar Support Group™ was established to fill a critical gap in the support network for individuals facing the daunting challenges of white-collar crime charges. Grant’s own experience with the criminal justice system, including serving almost 14 months in federal prison, provided him with unique insights into the needs of this underserved community. Together with Springer, they created the world’s first ministry devoted to supporting people prosecuted for white-collar crimes and their families.
The traditional prison consultant industry offers services for a fee, focusing on preparing clients for the practicalities of serving time. While these services can be valuable, they often overlook the emotional, spiritual, and communal aspects of navigating the criminal justice system. The White Collar Support Group™, on the other hand, offers a holistic approach to support. It provides a platform for individuals to share their experiences, fears, and hopes with others who understand the unique challenges they face, all within a confidential and compassionate environment.
What sets the White Collar Support Group™ apart is its emphasis on community. The group meets weekly on Zoom, allowing participants from across the globe to join discussions on topics ranging from preparing for prison to rebuilding life afterward. This approach fosters a sense of belonging and understanding, offering participants a lifeline during one of the most challenging periods of their lives. With over 900 participants from the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Israel, South America, and the Caribbean, the group’s reach and impact are profound.
The White Collar Support Group™ goes beyond offering advice by facilitating a space where shared experiences and collective wisdom are the foundations of support. Jeff Grant and Deputy Director William Livolsi emphasize that the group is about sharing rather than advising, creating a nurturing environment for growth and healing. This model has proven incredibly effective, with the support group achieving significant milestones, including its 400th meeting in February 2024.
The work of Progressive Prison Ministries and the White Collar Support Group™ has not gone unnoticed. Featured in national and regional media, the group has established itself as a vital resource for individuals and families navigating the complexities of the white-collar criminal justice system. By offering this support for free, they are disrupting an industry and providing a beacon of hope for many who would otherwise face their journey alone.
For those impacted by white-collar criminal justice issues, the White Collar Support Group™ offers an invaluable resource. Its success is a testament to the power of community and the need for a more compassionate approach to support services. As the group continues to grow and reach new milestones, it remains a testament to the possibility of positive transformation and redemption.
To learn more about the White Collar Support Group™ or to register for an upcoming meeting, visit prisonist.org/contact
Published By: Aize Perez
