DRZC and BPF Portland invite any who wish to know more about Oregon Dept of Justice's program "Home For Good."
Ex-prisoners are less likely to commit crimes again if they are integrated safely into the community. "Home For Good" is Oregon's program that includes faith communities in that effort. Prisoners need the Three Refuges when they are in prison, and they need the Refuges when they are released. The time is ripe for a Buddhist welcome for them when they are released.
This could be the beginning of a Buddhist participation in Portland. Rev. Furlton will give information on the program, on becoming a chaplain and/or a volunteer in the program.
For a solid Buddhist program to flourish in Portland, participation by interested Buddhists across Sangha lines will be needed. Dharma Rain Zen Center is willing to take point, and welcomes potential volunteers from other communities.
It is the hope of BPF Portland that this could be the first in a series of Engaged Buddhist cooperative efforts. We will be glad to serve as a conduit for other aspects of Engaged Buddhism.
That link again: http://www.oregon.gov/DOC/TRANS/religious_services/rs_hgo_program.shtml