Our History
ARCH (Accompanying Returning Citizens With Hope) traces its roots to the Vincentian Ohio Action Network (VOAN), founded in 2014 by Wendy Tarr. VOAN was established to provide a platform for community organizing focused on addressing the root causes of poverty, with the initial support of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. In 2015, VOAN became an independent 501c3 nonprofit, dedicated to empowering individuals impacted by poverty and marginalization to become leaders in civic engagement, movement building, and policy advocacy.
As part of its early work, VOAN launched several community-based initiatives. A key program, the "Think Tanks on Poverty," was implemented across multiple counties in Central Ohio, where community members gathered to discuss and address issues related to poverty. Another important initiative, the "Restored Citizens and Communities for Change," created a space for formerly incarcerated individuals to organize and advocate for systemic changes that would support their reintegration into society.
As VOAN's work expanded, it became evident that there was a pressing need for better coordination and engagement in the reentry space—something beyond what VOAN was able to achieve at the time. Recognizing this, VOAN shifted its focus and expanded its efforts to include programs specifically aimed at helping returning citizens secure stable employment, housing, and holistic reintegration into their communities. This shift led to the spinning off of the "Think Tanks on Poverty" and the creation of ARCH in 2017, a program dedicated to addressing the barriers faced by individuals returning from incarceration. VOAN now operates under the name ARCH (doing business as ARCH).
ARCH was built on a foundation of leadership from directly impacted individuals, alongside the support of community and faith-based leaders at St. Vincent de Paul and the Catholic Diocese of Columbus, who sought to enhance and grow reentry collaboration in Central Ohio. ARCH remains committed to not only providing immediate solutions to support individuals impacted by incarceration but also to driving systemic change. Through collaboration and advocacy, we work to lift up the voices of directly impacted people, creating solutions to remove barriers to reentry and employment.
Today, ARCH continues to build our work holistically, offering housing, navigation, direct assistance, workforce development, and community engagement. We are dedicated to creating pathways to sustainable employment for returning citizens while ensuring that they thrive in their communities. By combining vocational skills training with comprehensive support services, ARCH fosters an environment where returning citizens can succeed and rebuild their lives while continuing to advocate for a more just and equitable system.
In Memoriam
Jerry Freewalt
October 10, 1972 ~ June 11, 2024
ARCH would not be what it is today without the vision, dedication, and unwavering support of Jerry Freewalt. As one of the founders of our program, Jerry was more than a partner—he was a friend, a confidant, and a tireless advocate for those whom society so often forgets.
Through his work with the Office of Social Concerns at the Catholic Diocese and as the former Executive Director of the Catholic Conference of Ohio, Jerry was a steadfast voice for the marginalized, especially those in prison. He believed in redemption, second chances, and the inherent dignity of every person. His passion and commitment laid the foundation for ARCH’s mission, and his influence continues to shape our work today.
Jerry passed away in 2024, leaving behind a legacy of justice, mercy, and unwavering faith in the power of transformation. Though he is deeply missed, his spirit lives on in the lives changed through this program. We honor him not just in words, but in action—by continuing to serve, uplift, and stand beside those who need it most.
Rest in peace, Jerry. Your work lives on.
Donations to the Jerry Freewalt Memorial Fund at the Catholic Foundation can be accepted here to support his legacy.