Transforming Incarcerated Lives
More than 95% of those who are incarcerated will one day return home. Yet many face significant challenges upon release, and nearly 80% will return to prison within five years. Hope to the Hopeless (H2H) exists to help change that trajectory through faith and education. The program helps students experience transformation and prepares them to become positive influences within their correctional facilities, families, churches, and communities.
What is Hope to the Hopeless?
H2H is a partnership between Crown College and the Nebraska prison system that provides incarcerated students the opportunity to earn an associate degree in Christian Ministry. Through faith-based higher education, students develop biblical knowledge, leadership skills, and a foundation for personal transformation.
Watch the Story
Learn how Hope to the Hopeless is using Christ-centered education to transform lives within the Tecumseh State Correctional Institution.
First Graduating Cohort
Since launching in 2024, H2H has already seen remarkable results. In April 2026, eight students graduated with Associate Degrees in Christian Ministry through Crown College. Read more in Bridged magazine (pages 10-11).
Cohort Member Testimonials
Being incarcerated, you feel so alone. But being in the Crown classes, the fellowship, the camaraderie, the guys come in together and be there for one another.
I intend to make good use of the knowledge, resources, and hope … so that I may serve other prisoners and jailers.
Every one of the professors truly cares. They truly represent who Jesus is. They are great examples and models of who I want to be.
My two-year journey with Crown College was the best possible thing that ever happened to me – and I am so excited for others beginning their journey. We have true meaning and purpose here. Thank you to all who made this possible.
Steven’s Story
Steven Scott understands the challenges of incarceration firsthand. During his own time in prison, he encountered two forces that changed the course of his life: faith in Christ and access to education.
His vision and generosity were the impetus for the partnership with Crown College. Today, Steven serves as the Re-entry Coordinator who is responsible for following up with the students who graduate and assist in their placement. He also works to expand awareness of the program to potential partners and donors. His vision is simple: provide education, discipleship, and hope that can transform lives both inside and beyond prison walls.
Hope to the Hopeless: Student Impact
Helping students grow in faith, succeed in college, and prepare for lives of leadership and service.
Our Current Impact
- 61.5% Graduation Rate
- 8 Graduates
- 3.80 Average GPA of Cohort 1
- 19 Students Currently Enrolled
Students Are Equipped To:
- Grow in their relationship with Christ
- Pursue the benefits of a college education
- Develop leadership and life skills
- Positively influence their communities
- Prepare for success and service in the future
How You Can Help
Hope to the Hopeless is made possible through faithful partners who believe in the power of education and redemption. As the program grows, donor support equips students with the tools they need to succeed.
Your gift helps provide:
- Student tuition
- Laptops and classroom technology
- Educational resources and learning materials
- Support for future H2H cohorts
By offering an institutional scholarship, Crown invests alongside donors in each student’s journey. Together, we can remove barriers to education and create opportunities for lasting transformation.
Are you ready to change lives with us?
Your generosity helps provide the tools and resources incarcerated students need to succeed in opening the doors to their transformation.
Important Statistics to Consider
5,000+
Individuals incarcerated in Nebraska will return home.
80%
of those who return home will be re-arrested.
≈ 50%
lower recidivism rate from those who receive a college education while in prison.
$1
spent educating an individual in prison will save $5 in long-term incarceration costs.
Next Steps
Learn More
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