Prison Ministry
Companions Journeying Together Inc.
How Companions Journeying Together Started:
Batavia resident Jana Minor founded Companions Journeying Together Inc. in 1986 with an inheritance she received from her Aunt Mary. Companions provides services to incarcerated women, men and their families in successful cooperation with The Illinois Department of Corrections, county jails and church groups. Its mission is to promote personal growth through literacy and communication programs that strengthen family bonds.
How to Get Involved:
Aunt Mary’s Storybook: Incarcerated mothers and fathers read brand new books to their children on tape or CD. We send the book and recording as a special gift to the children. You can support this program by donating mailing supplies, blank CDs or bookmarks.
“I listen every night. I really like my mom’s voice, and it makes me feel like she’s putting me to bed. I miss my mother, and it makes me want to see her again. So, sometimes I cry when I listen.”
--An Honor Roll Student and tape recipient
Family Stories: Incarcerated mothers and father register their children to receive a new book every month. College student volunteers select the books; children write book reports and letters to their parents. Children develop literacy skills and compile their own library. Monetary donations for postage are greatly appreciated. Mailing supplies, bookmarks and stickers can also be donated.
Christmas Cards: Each year at Christmas, Companions sends thousands of Christmas cards to incarcerated men and women. You can help by donating signed cards (we use Companions’ return address) with an attached first-class stamp. We also need volunteers to assist in addressing the cards.
"I want to thank you for the card that you sent me. Thank you for your concern and for your thoughtfulness. Your card really brought cheer and joy in my life. It showed me God’s love through your deed."
--Pedro, an inmate at Stateville Correctional Center
Mother’s Day: Each year we send small packets of note cards and stationery to incarcerated women and youth as a Mother’s Day gift. We want to send a message to the recipients that they are worthy of nice things and to give them an opportunity to send a letter to their loved ones. Your donations of stationery, pens and stamps are appreciated.
"I see a lot of women sitting and writing to their families and it is such a good feeling to know society still cares for the friends and family who are struggling while we are rehabilitating ourselves. Thank you for your support and giving souls."
--Stephanie, an inmate at Lincoln Correctional Center
For more information about Companions, click here or visit www.cjtinc.org.