07/10/2025
🤝Making a Difference--Hope to Hope: Mary Jane Carpenter’s Mission of Compassion at the Ohio Reformatory for Women
Mary Jane Carpenter, a dedicated member of New Albany Presbyterian Church, is quietly making a profound impact through her mission, Hope to Hope. Every Thursday, Mary Jane drives to the Ohio Reformatory for Women in Marysville to work with female inmates, fostering creativity, community, hope and purpose.
Ten years ago, Mary Jane’s journey with Hope to Hope began with a deep sense of calling, Inspired by former prison warden, Ronnie Burkes. Mary Jane knew she had to act. “Hearing the inmates’ stories, I realized how much hope and encouragement these women need,” she said. She began volunteering with inmates, providing crafting supplies and yarn for crocheting. She also began volunteering in the prison nursery. The program gives an opportunity for the inmates to bond with and learn to care for their babies. Mary Jane stays in contact with several of the women and children who are now home in the Columbus area.
Mary Jane’s commitment to service is deeply rooted in her life. A Worthington native, she has four daughters—Katy, Elizabeth, Caroline, and Abigail, one son-in-law, Andrew, and five fabulous grandchildren. Her husband, Jim, and their family, spread across the country, are her biggest supporters. Living in North of Woods, Mary Jane is an active part of the New Albany Country Club community and the Presbyterian Church, where she plays the organ each Sunday.
For those interested in volunteering or donating craft supplies (yeah, ANY craft supplies), contact Mary Jane at [email protected].
🖊By Elizabeth Sedlock