About The Center for Transformation

The Center for Transformation is a nonprofit organization located in Kalamazoo, Michigan, that provides mentoring services for formerly incarcerated individuals. CFT believes in the human capacity for transformation and redemption.  We believe in second chances, the value of every human life, the power of friendship, understanding, compassion, faith, and hard work.

Our mission is to assist previously incarcerated individuals from our community to rebuild their lives and become law-abiding contributing members of our community. CFT holds weekly groups in Kalamazoo where mentors and formerly incarcerated people come together to talk about joys, challenges, resources, or special topics. This is a supportive, inclusive group that welcomes anyone with a history of incarceration or those interested in becoming mentors. Additionally, CFT sends newsletters several times a year to inmates from Kalamazoo County who are incarcerated at prisons throughout Michigan.

Our Message to Formerly Incarcerated Persons

As you begin to rebuild your life—seeking housing, employment, and healthy relationships— CFT will help you in finding resources and agencies that will assist you. We offer encouragement and guidance as you work to successfully re-establish a productive and satisfying life.

You may face disappointments and frustrations, but you need not face them alone. Your mentor will be there to listen and help you make informed and positive choices. Our goal is to support your transition with friendship that is both honest and understanding. Our aim is not to “do” for you, but to support your best possible decisions and actions leading to the successful life you are seeking.

To be transformed is to be changed and, at its best, to be renewed and recreated. This possibility is open to all persons, regardless of their past, if they truly and earnestly seek it. Many things can interfere and prevent it, just as many others can contribute to it.