Welcome to Men of Valor
Men of Valor is committed to winning men in prison to Jesus Christ and discipling them. Our purpose is to equip them to re-enter society as men of integrity – becoming givers to the community rather than takers.
Our Programs
Men of Valor offers a wide range of programs supporting incarcerated men, returning citizens, and their families. Here you’ll find opportunities for connection, restoration, advocacy, and partnership—all designed to help rebuild lives and strengthen communities.
Our Impact
Men served in Prisons & Jails in 2024
%
Emplyoment rate with over 28 Job Partners in 2024
%
Recidivism rate for program graduates in 2024
Men have been served through our Residential Campuses in 2024
Walking with Men from Prison to Purpose
Through housing, mentorship, employment support, and relational discipleship, we help men break cycles of incarceration and build lives of hope, purpose, and contribution.
Testimonials
God has used MOV to show me a whole new life, and it has helped me have and build a relationship with my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. God has changed my heart, mind, and soul. He used MOV to do it. JESUS SAVES AND RESTORES, and my life is a testimony of his goodness.
From a broken young man seeking purpose, to a redeemed servant of Christ—Men of Valor helped guide my journey. Now I serve as Program Director. All glory to God!
I met a man named Jesus while in a prison cell. He gave me a crown of Beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.
Men of Valor Academy provides invaluable opportunities for its students through partnerships with local businesses, offering pathways to employment and equipping them with the skills necessary to become productive members of society. Thank you for your faith in and commitment to providing opportunities for men like me who are striving for a better future.
Our Partners
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✨🎩 NASHVILLE… ARE YOU READY FOR AN EVENING OF WONDER? 🎩✨
⏳ Less than 3 weeks away!
😂 Laughter
🎩 Magic
🍽️ Dinner
🎶 Music
🎁 Live & Silent Auctions
❤️ HOPE & TRANSFORMED LIVES!
Join us November 18 for Men of Valor`s 3rd Annual Nashville Fall Gala, featuring the incredible Stephen Bargatze!
Because the greatest wonder isn`t an illusion… it`s a transformed life! 🙌
📍 Liberty Hall at The Factory | Franklin, TN
🕠 5:30 PM
🎟️ $150 per ticket
✨ REGISTRATION IS OPEN — DON`T MISS OUT!
🔗 Register through the link in our bio or visit:
https://secure.movministry.com/a/nashville-fall-gala-2026
🤝 Interested in sponsoring or donating an auction item? Email alex@movministry.com.
#MenOfValor #AnEveningOfWonder #NashvilleGala #StephenBargatze #SecondChances #FranklinTN #NashvilleEvents #HopeAndRestoration
Oct 29
🙌 A NEW CHAPTER BEGINS!
Last Sunday, Courtevious walked through the prison gates and into a new season of life—reuniting with his mom and beginning the next chapter of his journey home! ❤️
But Courtevious didn’t have to walk this road alone.
Through the Tennessee Volunteer Mentor Initiative (VMI), Courtevious was matched with mentor Scott Pace, who committed to showing up, building a relationship, offering encouragement, and helping him prepare for life beyond prison walls.
And that commitment doesn’t end at the gate! A mentor’s presence can make a lasting difference as a man navigates the challenges, opportunities, and responsibilities of reentry.
From incarceration to freedom.
From preparation to a fresh start.
From walking alone to having someone walking alongside him.
🙏 “Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.” — Galatians 6:2 (KJV)
Scott, thank you for answering the call to mentor and for continuing to walk alongside Courtevious. Your willingness to show up reflects the heart of Christ in a powerful way.
Courtevious, we’re praying for you as you step into this new chapter. May God guide your steps, strengthen your faith, and lead you into the future He has prepared for you! Your next chapter has begun, and we’re cheering you on! 🙌
❤️ YOU can be part of someone’s new beginning! Through VMI and Men of Valor, caring mentors help men prepare for release and navigate the transition back into their communities. Sometimes, one consistent relationship can make all the difference.
Mentortn.org/Riverbend https://www.mentortn.org/riverbend
Mentortn.org/Trousdale https://www.mentortn.org/trousdale
MentorTN.org/Whiteville https://www.mentortn.org/whiteville
Men of Valor https://movministry.com
VMI https://mentortn.org
#MenOfValor #VolunteerMentorInitiative #VMI #WelcomeHome #SecondChances #FaithInAction #Restoration #ReentrySuccess #MentorshipMatters #ChangedLivesChangingLives #WalkAlongside #HopeInChrist
Oct 20
A NEW CHAPTER IS AHEAD. AND JOSHUA DOESN’T HAVE TO FACE IT ALONE. ❤️
As Joshua prepares to leave prison and begin the next chapter of his life, having someone in his corner is making a difference.
When asked about his experience with the Tennessee Volunteer Mentorship Initiative (VMI), Joshua rated it Excellent and shared that he feels extremely comfortable with his mentor.
Think about what that means. In a season filled with change and uncertainty, Joshua has someone he can trust—someone who listens, encourages him, and walks alongside him as he prepares for life beyond prison walls.
That’s what mentorship is all about. It’s not about having all the answers or knowing exactly what the future holds. It’s about building a relationship, showing up consistently, and reminding another person that they don’t have to navigate life’s challenges alone.
Joshua’s story reminds us that sometimes, knowing someone believes in you can make all the difference.
📖 “Two are better than one... For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow.” — Ecclesiastes 4:9–10 (ESV)
Through Men of Valor and the Tennessee Volunteer Mentorship Initiative, you can be part of someone’s journey toward a fresh start.
Joshua has someone walking alongside him. Will you walk alongside another man?
One man. One mentor. One relationship that can change a life. 🙏
Mentortn.org/Riverbend https://www.mentortn.org/riverbend
Mentortn.org/Trousdale https://www.mentortn.org/trousdale
MentorTN.org/Whiteville https://www.mentortn.org/whiteville
Men of Valor https://movministry.com
VMI https://mentortn.org
#MenOfValor #VMI #VolunteerMentorshipInitiative #MentorshipMatters #PrisonReentry #SecondChances #HopeAndRestoration #FaithInAction #LifeTransformation #CommunityImpact #WalkAlongside #JesusChangesLives
Oct 16
WHAT A REUNION!! 🙌❤️
Nearly 30 years ago, these four men were incarcerated together right here in Nashville, Tennessee. During that season of their lives, they were being discipled by Men of Valor founder Carl Carlson, whose life was transformed by Jesus at the Tennessee State Prison in the 1970`s.
Look at what God has done!
Today, these four men are living productive lives, giving back to their communities, and making a difference in the lives of others. They are living proof that a man’s past does not have to define his future when God begins a work in his heart.
And their stories represent thousands of men whose lives have been impacted through Men of Valor over the past three decades. What began with one transformed life continues to create a ripple effect of hope, healing, and redemption. 🌱
📖 “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” — 2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV)
We give God ALL the glory for His faithfulness and the life-changing power of the Gospel!
Want to be part of the next story of transformation? Join what God is doing through Men of Valor and the Tennessee Volunteer Mentorship Initiative (VMI). Your willingness to show up for one man can make a difference that lasts for generations.
Mentortn.org/Riverbend https://www.mentortn.org/riverbend
Mentortn.org/Trousdale https://www.mentortn.org/trousdale
MentorTN.org/Whiteville https://www.mentortn.org/whiteville
Men of Valor https://movministry.com
VMI https://mentortn.org
#MenOfValor #MOVement #VolunteerMentorshipInitiative #VMI #PrisonMinistry #LifeTransformation #Redemption #SecondChances #NewCreation #GodsFaithfulness #ChangedLives #CommunityImpact #MentorshipMatters #FaithInAction #JesusChangesLives #HopeAndRestoration #NashvilleTN
Oct 14
THE SENTENCE ENDED. THE JOURNEY CONTINUES. 🙏
Saturday morning, September 26, was more than a release day. It was a beautiful picture of what the Volunteer Mentorship Initiative (VMI) is all about.
After serving his time at Riverbend Maximum Security Institution, Chester Grimes walked through the gate and into a new chapter. Waiting for him was his VMI mentor, Adam Harper.
Adam didn’t just show up for Chester while he was incarcerated—he showed up at the gate.
Adam stood with Chester, encouraged him, prayed with him, and witnessed a moment they had been working toward together. Chester’s family was there, too, surrounding him with love as he began his journey home.
And the relationship doesn’t end at the prison gate. Adam will continue walking alongside Chester as he navigates reentry, family, responsibilities, challenges, and the opportunities of a fresh start.
The prison sentence may be over, but Chester’s story isn’t. A new chapter has begun.
This is VMI: showing up inside the walls, standing at the gate, and continuing the journey after a man comes home.
To God be the glory for the freedom, family, friendship, and transformation we witnessed Saturday.
Come join Men of Valor and Tennessee`s Volunteer Mentor Initiative:
Mentortn.org/Riverbend https://www.mentortn.org/riverbend
Mentortn.org/Trousdale https://www.mentortn.org/trousdale
MentorTN.org/Whiteville https://www.mentortn.org/whiteville
Men of Valor https://movministry.com
VMI https://mentortn.org
#walkalongside #VMI #VolunteerMentorshipInitiative #MenOfValor #Mentorship #PrisonMinistry #PrisonReentry #Reentry #SecondChances #NewBeginnings #HopeAndRestoration #FaithInAction #ChangedLives #JesusChangesLives #ShowUp #WalkAlongside
Oct 10
Four years ago, wastemanagement took a chance on our men and the mission of Men of Valor. Today, we are humbled and incredibly grateful to see how that one decision has blossomed into a partnership that continues to transform lives, restore hope, and create opportunities for lasting change.
What began as an opportunity for men seeking a second chance has become so much more. Many Men of Valor students and graduates have found meaningful employment with WM, and several have advanced into leadership positions. These are not simply employment statistics. These are men, families, and communities whose futures are being rewritten through the power of second chances.
To Eddie McManus, Paul Farley, Molly Morrissey and the entire WM leadership team, THANK YOU! Thank you for looking beyond someone’s past and choosing to see their God-given potential. Thank you for believing in our men when others might have overlooked them. And thank you for walking alongside our ministry these past four years, not simply as an employer, but as a true partner in restoring lives.
We are also deeply honored and grateful for your generous $10,000 Go-Green Grant. Your investment is so much more than financial support. It is a continued expression of your belief in our mission and, more importantly, in the men we have the privilege of serving.
At Men of Valor, we often witness what happens when someone is given a second chance. But partnerships like this remind us that sometimes all it takes is someone willing to take the FIRST chance on someone who desperately needs a SECOND one.
We give GoOD all the glory for what He has accomplished through this relationship, and we look forward with great anticipation to the lives that will continue to be impacted in the years ahead.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you, WM, for being part of the Men of Valor family! 💪🏽🙏🏽🙌🏽
#MenOfValor #WM #SecondChances #Gratitude #CommunityPartnerships #WorkforceDevelopment #RestoringLives
Oct 9
ONE STORY. ONE ROOM. ONE POWERFUL REMINDER OF GOD’S REDEEMING GRACE. 🙏
Men of Valor graduate Cory Edison recently had the opportunity to share his life story with more than 50 Vanderbilt University student-athletes involved with WhoUWith Ministries, led by Lance Brown, “Brother B.”
Cory openly shared about childhood trauma, addiction, and eventual incarceration—but most importantly, he shared the story of the miraculous transformation God has brought about in his life.
After a meaningful Q&A, the students gathered around Cory and prayed over him, bringing the evening to a beautiful close. 🙏
We are so grateful for community partners who create opportunities for men like Cory to share stories of hope, healing, redemption, and new beginnings.
Because who among us doesn’t need a little more encouragement like that?
“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Thank you, WhoUWith Ministries, Brother B, and the Vanderbilt student-athletes for making space for Cory’s story. What God has redeemed in one life can become hope for many others.
#MenOfValor #MOVement #WhoUWith #Vanderbilt #VanderbiltAthletics #StudentAthletes #Hope #Healing #Redemption #Transformation #SecondChances #LifeChange #GodsGrace #FaithInAction #PrisonMinistry #CommunityPartners #JesusChangesLives #EncourageOneAnother
Oct 9
🌱 SEEDS. WATER. GROWTH. FRUIT.
God cultivated the soil of Michael Ashe’s heart.
Through the years, seeds were planted and watered by Men of Valor. And today, Michael is not only growing—his life is bearing fruit. 🍇
What a privilege it is to witness the transforming power of Jesus in a man’s life.
And what if God wants to use you to help plant and water the next seed?
Through Tennessee’s Volunteer Mentorship Initiative (VMI), you can walk alongside a man preparing to return home from prison—showing up, listening, encouraging, and building a relationship that can make an eternal difference.
You can join the journey.
You can be part of the growth.
You can help a man bear fruit.
👉 Become a VMI mentor and see what God can do through one faithful relationship.
Mentortn.org/Riverbend https://www.mentortn.org/riverbend
Mentortn.org/Trousdale https://www.mentortn.org/trousdale
MentorTN.org/Whiteville https://www.mentortn.org/whiteville
Men of Valor https://movministry.com
VMI https://mentortn.org
#MenOfValor #VMI #VolunteerMentorshipInitiative #Mentorship #PrisonMinistry #PrisonReentry #Reentry #SecondChances #HopeAndRestoration #FaithInAction #MakeADifference #LifeTransformation #JesusChangesLives #PlantSeeds #BearingFruit #KingdomImpact #Tennessee
Oct 8
#ONE MAN. ONE MENTOR. ONE RELATIONSHIP. ❤️
Men of Valor had the privilege of being at Celebration of Life Church in Hendersonville to share about the Tennessee Volunteer Mentorship Initiative (VMI) and the need for men willing to step into one-on-one mentorship.
Our VMI Coordinator, Robbie Cantrell, shared his powerful testimony of addiction, incarceration, and transformation. Robbie was released from prison on April 23, 2023. Today, he has the opportunity to go back inside—not as an inmate, but as someone helping men prepare to come home.
Through VMI, Men of Valor is recruiting mentors for Riverbend Maximum Security Institution, Trousdale Turner Correctional Center, and Whiteville Correctional Facility.
VMI mentors don`t need to have all the answers. They simply need to be willing to show up, listen, encourage, build a relationship, and walk alongside another man as he prepares for reentry.
Mentorship begins up to 12 months before release and continues for 6 months after release, providing consistency and relationship during one of the most important transitions in a man`s life.
We`re grateful to Celebration of Life Church for opening its doors and helping us share this mission.
One man.
One mentor.
One relationship that can make a lasting difference.
Could you be that mentor? 🙏
Learn more here:
Mentortn.org/Riverbend https://www.mentortn.org/riverbend
Mentortn.org/Trousdale https://www.mentortn.org/trousdale
MentorTN.org/Whiteville https://www.mentortn.org/whiteville
Men of Valor https://movministry.com
VMI https://mentortn.org
#MenOfValor #VolunteerMentorshipInitiative #VMI #Mentorship #PrisonMinistry #PrisonReentry #Reentry #Volunteer #Mentor #SecondChances #HopeAndRestoration #LifeTransformation #FaithInAction #MakeADifference #OneManOneMentor #JesusChangesLives #Tennessee #CelebrationofLife
Sep 29
IT TAKES A COMMUNITY. ❤️
At Men of Valor, volunteers are making a difference in the lives of our students in ways both big and small.
They’re opening doors to job opportunities.
They’re showing up as mentors and friends.
They’re sharing meals and conversations.
They’re celebrating milestones and victories.
And sometimes, they’re simply sharing an experience—like giving our Knoxville students the opportunity to enjoy the excitement of a Tennessee Volunteer football game! 🏈🍊
These moments matter.
Because transformation isn’t just about what happens in a classroom or program. It happens through relationships, encouragement, community, and people who are willing to show up.
To every Men of Valor volunteer: THANK YOU for investing your time, your resources, and your heart. You are helping men discover hope, build a new future, and live out the freedom they’ve been given.
You can make a difference, too. Come be part of the MOVement!
#MenOfValor #MOVement #PrisonMinistry #Volunteer #VolunteersMakeADifference #Mentorship #Reentry #SecondChances #Community #HopeAndRestoration #LifeTransformation #FaithInAction #Tennessee #VolForLife #JesusChangesLives
Sep 28
🤝 MORE SIMILAR THAN DIFFERENT
Why become a mentor through the Tennessee Volunteer Mentor Initiative (VMI)?
Maybe you have a sense in your heart that you should engage with men who are currently incarcerated and preparing to return to society.
Maybe you believe you have the heart and ability to help someone think through the challenges of reentry.
But then something happens.
As VMI mentor Paul Frankenberg discovered, you begin to realize that God is 100% in this. 🙏
“You’ll see that you and your mentee are more similar than different. You’ll realize that your words land with meaning to your mentee.”
And then you hear your mentee talk about his hopes for the future—to be a good community member, a good parent, and a responsible citizen who wants to be a giver more than a taker.
And you realize those aren`t just his goals.
They`re yours, too.
That`s the power of mentoring. ❤️
It`s not about one person having all the answers. It`s about showing up, listening, encouraging, walking alongside someone, and discovering what God can do through a relationship.
Through VMI and Men of Valor, ordinary people are building extraordinary relationships—and helping men prepare for a new chapter of life.
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” — Galatians 6:2
You may think you`re signing up to help someone else.
You may discover that God has something to teach you, too. 🙌
Be the person who shows up.
Mentortn.org/Riverbend https://www.mentortn.org/riverbend
Mentortn.org/Trousdale https://www.mentortn.org/trousdale
MentorTN.org/Whiteville https://www.mentortn.org/whiteville
Men of Valor https://movministry.com
VMI https://mentortn.org
#TennesseeVolunteerMentorInitiative #VMI #MenOfValor #MentoringMatters #PrisonMinistry #Reentry #SecondChances #Restoration #Brotherhood #FaithInAction #JesusChangesLives #ChangedLives #CommunityTransformation #Mentorship #MakeADifference
Sep 24
The greatest wonder isn`t an illusion. It`s a transformed life. You`re invited to An Evening of Wonder, the 3rd Annual Men of Valor Fall Gala, on Tuesday, October 6 at The Press Room in Knoxville, featuring comic magician Stephen Bargatze, auctioneer Matt Rogers, and live music from the Emerald Empire Band. Every ticket supports Men of Valor`s work walking alongside men leaving prison as they become givers to the community rather than takers. Tickets $125. Register here: https://tinyurl.com/2026KnoxGalaALR (or copy & paste on your browser)
Hashtags: #MenOfValor #AnEveningOfWonder #Knoxville #Reentry
Sep 22