Jon Ponder’s experience with the justice system started when he was first arrested at 12 years old. After multiple incarcerations over the years and faced with a 23-year sentence in federal prison, it was then that Ponder made a determined decision that this would be the last time.
While serving what resulted in a five-year sentence, Ponder used his time to educate himself and prepare for his imminent return home. As he approached his release date, the reality of the barriers that awaited him on the outside hit. It was then that his vision for HOPE for Prisoners was born.
“I have spent the last decade working to build this organization that provides comprehensive support to men and women who are facing the same challenges that I faced when I returned home from incarceration,” Ponder said.
HFP has served more than 3,000 clients since its inception in 2009 with reentry services that focus on mental, physical and spiritual growth and development. The program provides assistance through life skills and job readiness training, substance abuse treatment, vocational and educational opportunities, intensive case management and long-term mentoring.
In 2012, HFP made an unprecedented partnership with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department in which, officers serve as volunteers and mentors for HFP clients. It is one of Ponder’sproudest accomplishments, and has served as a model for other jurisdictions around the country as they look at their own processes of reentry.
Ponder’s work with HOPE for Prisoners has seen tremendous success. HFP boasts a mere 6% rate of recidivism, while other states’ reincarceration rates are as high as 69%. He has forged a path for others to follow – opening doors and offering a hand – as a true leader does.
“Going the extra mile for people who are suffering is the role of a humanitarian,” Ponder said. “Meeting people right where they are and providing them with the tools and the encouragement to overcome the challenges and barriers that they are facing. When I think of a humanitarian, I think of someone who lives their life helping to make other people’s dreams come true.”