When you meet Thomas Lane, you’re greeted by a spirit of hope and transformation. His life’s work centers on supporting incarcerated and newly released individuals, guiding them through the challenging process of re-entry into society.
Whether he’s working full-time in visual communications at Maryland Correctional Enterprises or volunteering at the Howard County Detention Center with the Life Skills, Education, Employment Program (LEEP), Thomas brings compassion and understanding to every interaction.
Many people behind bars face the daunting task of completing their high school education before they can access vocational training. Thomas steps in as a mentor and tutor, offering one-on-one support to help them earn their GED and open doors to new opportunities.
But Thomas’ story is more than just professional dedication—it’s deeply personal. “When I found myself in prison, I knew I wanted change but didn’t know how to change,” he recalls. It was an invisible hand, which Thomas identifies as God, that led him to correctional education, workforce development, and a church service. These three pillars changed the trajectory of his life, and today, he celebrates more than 19 years of freedom.
Having faced mental health struggles, poverty, drug abuse, and incarceration, Thomas understands the challenges that many individuals returning into society endures. That empathy inspired him to launch the “Release Project,” designed for individuals newly released from prison. Through his men’s group, “What’s Going On: Mentoring and Support,” he helps participants confront feelings of fear, guilt, regret, and pride, working to restore their dignity and self-confidence. He recognizes that true re-entry requires more than emotional healing—it demands practical support in housing, food, clothing, employment, and transportation.
“We are providing a safe space to help men stay on the right path physically, mentally and spiritually through Mentoring within our support group. Many men are returning home from incarceration and are faced with navigating barriers such as (Housing, Food, Clothing, Transportation, and Employment),” he said.
“Therefore, the What’s Going On Support Group seeks to forge relational partnerships while connecting those who are returning to the community with resources that fit each individual’s journey to success. The goal is to create pathways and eliminate barriers.”
Mr. Lane now regularly leads a What’s Going On Support Group at Central Presbyterian Church. He also serves at the City of Hope Church in Baltimore with song and testimony.
The scale of the need is immense. With approximately 17,000 individuals in the Maryland Correctional System, training programs have been established for those with a high school diploma or GED. Participants must remain infraction-free during their training, which includes hands-on experience in producing license plates, constructing furniture, and making t-shirts.
To further support his mission, Thomas has written an autobiography, “Released,” and created the “What’s Going On? Workbook” for his support groups. “My greatest hope is that marginalized lives will be impacted and transformed by Jesus Christ both spiritually and practically through the Release Project Ministry,” he said.
Thomas’ journey is a testament to the power of faith, education, and community. Through his work, he’s not only changing lives—he’s helping others discover the invisible hand that can guide them from chains to change. His abiding Scripture verse is from 1 Thessalonians 5:11 “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”
Currently, Thomas is hoping to expand his team of volunteers for meeting the many needs for resources, encouragers and mentors. Tangible needs such as food, clothing, housing, transportation and employment are so important. To become involved with this ministry, contact Thomas Lane at thomasclane01@gmail.com.
