investing in the lives of returning citizens

I began using drugs at 13 and was doing hard drugs by 15. At age 20, I was incarcerated and sentenced to serve 25 years in prison for multiple property crime convictions.

I was released after 18½ years, and my first essential step was to seek help within the community. I had no idea what to do and only really understood what not to do. Through prayer, hard work, and support from others, I was able to navigate myself to success. Prayer, hard work, and support from others put me on the path to success.

I’ve since been able to use my experience to help other formerly incarcerated individuals navigate and reintegrate into society. Founding The Penitent Thief will help me continue that work in a more impactful way by creating a network of resources to help support those in need.

Prison saved my life, but it didn’t prepare me for the future. Our mission at The Penitent Thief is to walk alongside our returning citizen neighbors and provide wrap-around support services that empower them to create a purposeful life after incarceration.

I'm Stacy Del Favero, Vice President and Director of the Women's Program with The Penitent Thief.When my husband, Paul, shared his vision to help men re-enter society after incarceration, I knew God was calling me to be a part of it.

Together, we built an organization rooted in redemption, second chances, and the belief that God's grace makes transformation possible.As we saw men's lives change, I saw a deep need among women walking the same path. I hadn't experienced incarceration or addiction myself, and at times I wondered if my story was enough. But God reminded me that compassion doesn't require credentials. It requires a willing heart, presence, faith, and love.I chose this path because Jesus chose me. He placed a burden on my heart to walk alongside women who are rebuilding their lives. I show up not with all the answers, but with faith, mentorship, prayer, and unconditional love.

My story is one of standing in the gap, building bridges, and reflecting Christ's light in places the world often overlooks.The women in our program have taught me as much as I've taught them. They remind me daily that healing happens through relationships, and that God uses all of us, regardless of background, to carry His hope.If you're looking to help, consider sharing employment opportunities or becoming a mentor. Your time, your belief, and your obedience to God's prompting can change a life.