Support Is Everything
We walk alongside men and women returning from incarceration.
"No person left behind — before the walls, inside them, or after."
We guide justice-impacted men and women through every stage of reentry — building stability, purpose, and lasting change in their lives.
A community where recidivism is the exception, not the rule — where every returning citizen has a mentor, a plan, and the Kingsmen family supporting them every step of the way.
The Kingsmen Way
From your first meeting to long-term stability — here is what membership in the Kingsmen looks like.
People who've walked the same path welcome you without judgment
Practical tools for housing, employment, and stability
Regular meetings and check-ins keep you anchored and accountable
Structured stages from pre-release to long-term post-release support
Support At Every Stage
We meet men and women where they are — before release, the day they walk out, and long after. Three stages, one mission.
Phase 01
Supporting those still incarcerated with mentorship, preparation, and planning for life outside.
Our pre-release program begins while individuals are still incarcerated, providing them with the mentorship, resources, and practical guidance they need to prepare for successful reentry. We work with participants to develop comprehensive reentry plans, address educational and employment barriers, and build connections with community support systems before release.
Phase 02
Provide resource connections and customized support.
The critical first days and weeks after release require practical support. Our just-released program provides housing referrals, assists with identification recovery, connects participants with employment opportunities, and helps establish crucial community connections. Intensive mentorship during this period sets the foundation for long-term success.
Phase 03
Long-term mentoring, accountability, family restoration, and pro-social activities.
Our post-release program focuses on long-term stability and reintegration into society. Through ongoing mentoring relationships, we provide accountability support, facilitate family restoration efforts, and create opportunities for pro-social engagement. This sustained support helps individuals build meaningful lives and reduce recidivism.
Real People. Real Change.
The Kingsmen Project gave me the support and guidance I needed when I had nothing else. My mentor believed in me when I didn't believe in myself, and today I'm employed, reunited with my family, and giving back to help others like me.
After 12 years, I didn't know where to start. This program walked me through every step — housing, employment, rebuilding my family relationships. I went from having nothing to having everything I need and a real community around me.
Giving back to this community has been the most meaningful work of my life. Mentoring through the Kingsmen Project has taught me as much as I hope I've taught my mentees. This mission is changing lives and neighborhoods.
Meet the Founders
Two people who lived it, survived it, and came back to make sure no one else has to face it alone.
Co-Founder & Executive Director
Born and raised in Minneapolis, Erick's path took him through addiction and incarceration — including 27 months in prison beginning in 2009. That sentence became his turning point. Since his release in 2011, he has not used drugs or alcohol. He started a men's support group that grew into the Kingsmen Project, and has served as a mentor with the Minnesota Federal Reentry Court for over seven years. A homeowner, union dump truck driver, and husband to co-founder Tammi Washington, Erick lives proof that change is possible.
Co-Founder & Program Director
Tammi Washington is a visionary leader and co-founder of the Kingsmen Project. Drawing on her background in Mortgage Banking and as founder of Crown Information Services, she brings professional expertise and deep personal commitment to the organization. Tammi has served as a mentor with the Minnesota Federal Reentry Court for five years and believes that every community grows stronger when its people invest in one another.
CEO, Montage Marketing Services
Over 40 years of marketing expertise. Dedicated mentor for reentry and criminal justice reform, helping individuals rebuild their lives through guidance and support.
LinkedIn
President & CEO, Urban Ventures
Leads Urban Ventures while serving as Mentor and Business Consultant for DLH Pathways Consulting LLC. Partner at Arden Clark, committed to empowering communities through business development.
LinkedIn
Founder, Steps2Change (S2C) | CEO, Pancho Villas
Founder of Steps2Change, a nonprofit youth development program transforming young lives. Also CEO of Pancho Villas Mexican Cuisine, blending entrepreneurship with community impact.
LinkedInMark Your Calendar
Stay connected with the Kingsmen family — in person and online.
Celebrate community, connection, and progress with the Kingsmen family.
Our weekly online meeting for members, mentors, and those interested in joining.
Monthly in-person gathering for connection, accountability, and encouragement.
Over 227 photos from Kingsmen events, milestones, and community moments.
Star Tribune
The Kingsmen Project is changing lives through mentorship and community support for formerly incarcerated individuals.
Read ArticleMinnPost
A Minneapolis-based nonprofit offers mentoring for those navigating life after incarceration.
Read ArticleWinnipeg Free Press
Cross-border efforts to reduce recidivism are gaining traction in communities.
Read ArticleEvery Dollar Counts
Your gift provides mentorship, resources, and real hope for men and women rebuilding their lives. 100% of donations go directly to program services.
Your Donation Makes a Difference
The Kingsmen Project
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Phone: (612) 226-6094
Email: kmpinfo411@gmail.com
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