In honor of National Volunteer Appreciation Week, we’re highlighting Christian Heritage Full-Time Volunteer Clergy Rev. Jim Erwin. Erwin has been connected to the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS) since 2005. He was nominated by a NDCS teammate who requested his assistance to help support an incarcerated individual whose family member passed away.

“He was in his pajamas when I called him and he got here almost immediately. I was so grateful for his assistance that day and the inmate was extensively grateful for his being there to pray with her,” said the teammate.

Erwin describes his dedication to Nebraska’s incarcerated population as a call from God. He said he enjoys working with the dedicated and caring staff at NDCS and feels the incarcerated people he works with are very appreciative of his time. “I have about 33 individuals who still come to church and bring their families even after leaving prison. We love to see them reconnect with their children.”

“Mr. Erwin, thank you very much for displaying compassion towards our incarcerated individuals during difficult times of loss beyond their control,” said Philana Blakely, NDCS Religious and Volunteer Administrator. “Words of comfort and cheer does a troubled heart good.”

NDCS has more than 1,236 volunteers and encourages anyone interested to contact NDCS and fill out an application. “NDCS has great appreciation for all our volunteers. We understand they gift us their invaluable possessions, their time, talent and dedication. Thank you never seems to be enough for this. Thank you for helping us grow as an agency and keep people safe,” said Blakely.

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