TOLEDO, Ohio – April marks Second Chance Month in Toledo, a time to recognize efforts that support individuals reentering society after incarceration. But for a dedicated group of volunteers in Lucas County, that mission extends far beyond just one month.
At the heart of this year-round work is the Chaplaincy Program at the Lucas County Jail, where 35 volunteers from various backgrounds provide spiritual guidance and hope to inmates. These chaplains, many of whom are not ordained clergy, serve as a source of comfort and inspiration for those navigating life behind bars.
“You have to have that support,” said Teshauna Isaac, a member of the Reentry Coalition of Northwest Ohio and one of the jail’s volunteer chaplains. She emphasized the importance of consistent encouragement for those hoping to change their lives.
Leading the initiative is Pastor Jerome Bush, chairman of the Chaplaincy Program, who trains new volunteers. He said chaplains are not required to be ministers or priests—just people with a deep passion for helping others.
“Men and women from different churches, different denominations come together to share a message of hope with inmates,” Pastor Bush said. “It’s all about spreading the word and showing compassion.”
The chaplains offer non-denominational services, pray with inmates, and help meet their spiritual needs. For many involved, the work is deeply personal and transformative.
Lorenzo Herrera, one of the chaplains, described the program as a “transforming power that turns you into a new creation.”
Deborah Weathers, who has volunteered in the jail for over 15 years, admitted she was hesitant at first. But over time, she saw the significant impact the program had on inmates. That experience, she said, continues to fuel her dedication.
“It’s not the end of the world. Don’t give up—people need hope,” Weathers said.
For some chaplains, the work is a way to give back after facing incarceration themselves. Melvin L. Hayes Sr., now a chaplain of six years, said his own time in and out of jail inspired him to step into the role.
“I listened to a lot of chaplains talk to us, and I wanted to do the same thing,” Hayes said.
Hayes has since encouraged others to join, including the program’s newest chaplain, Jessica Kohler. After six months of training and shadowing, Kohler was officially voted into the program. Her journey from inmate to chaplain is something she proudly shares with those still behind bars.
“It’s a testimony,” Kohler said. “To show other people—hey, I was in the same boat as you, but look at me now.”
Chaplains say messages of forgiveness, redemption, and rebirth resonate deeply with incarcerated individuals. Their goal is not only to provide comfort but to empower inmates to envision and pursue a better future.
Community members interested in learning more or volunteering with the Chaplaincy Program can contact the Lucas County Jail Inmate Services at 419-213-4971.