Re-energized by Their Example

Dan Ludeman at Covenant Theo-
logical Seminary (Barron's photo)

Law-abiding citizens have little sympathy for ex-prisoners. The latter did commit crimes--many stole property or injured people--and in all cases disrupted others' lives. Lending ex-prisoners a helping hand, however, is one of society's most productive, self-interested charitable endeavors because it reduces future crime. (In California a recidivism rate of 61% is lauded as an "improvement" by State officials.)

Wells Fargo Advisors CEO Daniel Ludeman retired at the age of 56 two years ago because he felt called to "help[] other people."

John Keast

After looking at a wide range of charitable activities, he felt he could do the most good by providing ex-cons the skills and material support to adapt to life after prison.. That will be his nights-and-weekend job; he will also be studying for his Master of Divinity degree from Covenant Theological Seminary in St. Louis

I especially admire individuals like Daniel Ludeman and my friend, John Keast, who devote the latter years of their lives to helping this unloved population (you'll see very few pictures of cute babies or baby animals on re-entry brochures). Whenever my enthusiasm flags, I think of these guys and am re-energized by their example.