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Community Corner

Maple Grove Couple Reaches Out to Former Inmates

A Maple Grove couple gives back by helping former inmates. The Myhr's have lived in the city for 28 years and have volunteered for a non profit called FreedomWorks over the course of the last decade.

Ten years ago Greg and Cheryl Myhr went to a church retreat. At the time they had no idea it would have a lasting impact on them.

It was at this Bloomington retreat that the couple learned about FreedomWorks, a ministry that helps inmates adjust to the real world after being released from prision. A former inmate spoke to the group about the significant impact FreedomWorks had on his future and at that moment the Myhr’s decided to get involved.

“We have seen this program transform lives,” Cheryl Myhr said. “This program offers a lot of assistance to inmates, but one of the most important things it offers is support.”

The nonprofit offers limited housing, computer training, chemical dependency support, mentoring and bible study to former felons. In 2009, the group ministered to well over 500 men, with an increasing demand for their services.

“I think many people are skeptical or hesitant to help former criminals because in many cases they have taken so much from society,” Cheryl Myhr said. “But this program teaches them how to give back to society.”

Since the Minneapolis based organization started in 2003 it boasts of a reputation for keeping men out of prison. According to FreedomWorks statistics, about 67 percent of criminals end up back in jail within three years. However, less than 10 percent of former inmates that are involved with FreedomWorks end up behind bars again.

“It’s all about building trust,” Greg Myhr said. “Before and during prison these men probably didn’t trust anyone, so as they begin to realize that there are people worth trusting, it opens their eyes to more and more positive possibilities.”

The Myhr’s typically help organize events for FreedomWorks, including a summer festival called FreedomFest and a fishing outing. The couple also helps fundraise and collect necessities through their church in Maple Grove. 

While the couple does volunteer for several other organizations, including the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, FreedomWorks is their main focus.

“To see men change their focus and become hard working, contributing members of society is a great feeling,” Greg Myhr said.  “It’s a program we believe in and plan to continue helping where we can.”

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