About
Jail Ministry and Gary
Last year, I had a heart attack – an ambulance ride, countless tests and scans, then surgeries ensued. Those were followed by rest, recovery, and lifestyle changes. There was so much to take in and process as my body healed. Fortunately, that traumatic experience allowed me to re-focus and reflect on the life I was living, and the freedom in giving even more to the Lord.
I have decided to enter into full-time ministry as the Lead Volunteer Chaplain of the Rio Cosumnes Correctional Center (RCCC), a branch of the Sacramento County Jail, located on the outskirts of Elk Grove.
This unsalaried Chaplain position is responsible for the religious needs of the entire RCCC population. Chaplain duties include oversight and scheduling of 19 Bible studies; all one-on-one visits; delivery of Bibles and other devotional materials; making death notifications; ensuring the 32 volunteer staff members are trained, and meet security requirements; act as the liaison with the RCCC Administration; and a litany of paperwork. I have been doing much of this work since 2004, yet formalizing my role will allow me to expand the program and better accommodate the Christ-focused/spiritual needs of the inmates. I will also continue to teach my original Bible study when I was first introduced to the jail system, over 30 years ago!
Unshackled NOW is also known as JC & us Jail Ministries. As a part of the JC & us family, Unshackled NOW is accountable to the external ministry overseers.
JC & us Ministries
JC & us Ministries began in 2000 by Rich and Jennie Hardesty after a vacation on their new Harley Davidson motorcycle to see God's creation. Though they always loved their bikes, (BMWs, Hondas, etc) and even owned an Auto Body shop, they had to put riding aside because it wasn't something they could do as a family. Once their girls were grown and married, they decided to take off on a new adventure... one they didn't even know the Lord was leading them into. While on their bike adventure, they met with many adults and children in the motorcycling world and saw they needed Jesus in their lives.
Rich and Jennie started attending Rallies, Poker Runs and Campouts. They joined Christian Motorcyclist Association (CMA) and rode with other Christian bikers.
The Hardestys were lead to begin JC & us Ministries. Some years, Rich and Jennie have found themselves on the road for 100+ days at Biker Meetings, Poker Runs, Church presentations, etc. They also travel across the United States with the Monte Perlin Family Stunt Team who ride their motorcycles in a steel globe...the Globe-O-Cross!
You can find Rich preaching, Jennie with Randy the Vet doll, and often ministering at rallies . Wherever they are, wherever they go, you will know they are always sharing Jesus's love.
Board of Directors
- Rich Hardesty
- Jennie Hardesty
- Greg West
- Charlotte Driver
- Richard Driver