History

The story of Peterborough Community Chaplaincy goes back to 1986 with the first visits that PCC Executive Director, Dan Haley, made as a volunteer to the former Provincial Correctional Facility in Millbrook.  At that time Dan was leading meetings for inmates struggling with alcohol addiction.  While building relationships with the men inside the institution Dan was exposed to the issues these individuals faced and began to consider how he could help.

Dan’s empathy is due in part to his own struggles with literacy and addiction.  He was able to overcome a learning disability and earned a diploma in social work.  These victories were won through personal tenacity and support from people who believed that Dan could succeed.  Through organizations like Alcoholics Anonymous, Trent Valley Literacy Association, United Way and Sir Sanford Fleming College Dan found the support he needed.

It was clear to Dan that there was a lack of support for offenders returning to their community.  These individuals often find themselves released from prison with little more than the clothing they are wearing.  Getting proper identification, finding a job, taking care of medical needs and meeting with a parole officer are just a few of the challenges they face.  Further challenges include:  A lack of affordable housing, absence of positive role models, an abundance of negative influences, health concerns (including mental health issues), isolation, and fear.  In many cases they are not welcome at home and have no one waiting for them when they get out.

Recognizing that a better support structure increased the chances of success, Dan began to assist individuals transitioning to the community.  He made regular visits to various institutions and built relationships, helping people connect to local churches and community based social services.

After Dan’s involvement in the release of a high profile offender from Kingston Penitentiary, officials from Correctional Service Canada (CSC) contacted Dan.  They were interested in learning more about what he was doing and why he was volunteering.

Shortly after Dan’s graduation in 1994, from Sir Sandford Fleming College, CSC approached him with a contract to start working as a Community Chaplain.  For the first ten years this contract was administered through different non-profit organizations.  However, as the ministry grew, and more people became involved, the need for a local non-profit organization solely devoted to this ministry became apparent.

In the spring of 2004 Peterborough Community Chaplaincy became a registered[i], incorporated[ii] non-profit charitable organization.  PCC continues to grow and evolve.  The following mission statement developed from our strategic planning process sums up what we do:  “Peterborough Community Chaplaincy is dedicated to improving community safety by providing a supportive environment for people making the transition from prison to the community.”

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[i] Canada Revenue Agency Business Number: 85709 8701 RR0001

[ii] Ontario Corporation Number 1603449