Michael H. (He/Him)

Precious Blood Ministry

Formerly incarcerated, Michael has made an effort to put his life onto a new path by partnering with Precious Blood Ministry. Not only has he been provided with a home for his family and a job working for the city of Chicago, but also a community of leaders and mentors from the same background as him to help him on his new path.

“When I came home from prison I was having housing issues, and I have 2 kids, six and ten years old. The guys from Precious Blood came and they helped me out. The helped me out with a whole lot. They got me a job too with city of Chicago […] just to really become a productive citizen”

- Michael H.

“After all of this I just wanna keep moving forward, but to also pay it forward. You know? So I like to volunteer when I can, when I get off of work. It’s like ‘ok, y’all helped me, so if there’s anything I can do to help y’all…’ You know, as a way for me to show respect. Helping out is really when I’m at my best.”

- Michael H.

“We’re all formerly incarcerated individuals. We do a lot of community work, but what I personally do is re-entry. Helping the guys find get established, get their IDs, access to employment, housing, and any other resources they need. The whole purpose is that when we come out, we help the guys coming in after us navigate those same pitfalls we faced. It’s important that we all come from the same background because one of the most important things our guys need is empathy.”

- Precious Blood Ministry Caseworker

About Precious Blood Ministry:

Rooted in the spirituality of the Precious Blood, Precious Blood Ministry of Reconciliation (PBM) restores human dignity through hospitality, hope and healing. PBM works as agents of reconciliation to:

• Build relationships among youth and families impacted by violence and/or conflict.

• Create safe spaces where people can experience radical hospitality, hope and healing.

• Promote a restorative justice approach to conflict and build a sense of community.