Starting Over On The Inside

Starting Over On The Inside A life-changing program that equips prisoners with the needed character qualities and life skills for their successful return to society. What If? Why Now?

What if the next 1,000 offenders released in Colorado attended Starting Over on the Inside before they ever left the prison walls? Imagine men and women restored by Jesus Christ who experience his transforming love, peace, and purpose. Imagine the impact this will have on their families, our communities, and Colorado? We have the favor of Colorado’s wardens and the Executive Director of Prisons. S

tarting Over is both on-site and on video for all DOC facilities; therefore, there is great potential for growth for the ministry in Colorado and other states. Prisons are planning to schedule their starting over the program in the first quarter of 2021. Why Are We Uniquely Qualified? Experience. Starting Over is about learning from failure and the ability to overcome it and succeed. For more than twenty years, the Starting Over Workshop has helped over five thousand people who have experienced life-changing setbacks who learn how to start over and experience healing, hope, and a real sense of purpose. Without addressing prisoners’ real-life issues before their release and if their hearts aren’t transformed by the love of Jesus Christ, the revolving door of recidivism continues…

"Starting Over helped me to step back and evaluate all my relationships on the outside and focus on my relationship with God to put things in proper perspective." -Zane

"Starting Over answered the questions of why I’m incarcerated. My history makes moresense and I know now that I’m valued and not alone." -Andrew

Your Partnership With Us? We need your help and now is a critical time to partner with us! Our first year’s costs include filming and production, scheduling, curriculum, facilitator training for Chaplains, teaching time, travel, and follow-up of release offenders. We need $67,000 in 2021 to launch this life-changing program. We’d be incredibly honored for you to be part of our team that will impact the future of these prisoners, their families, our communities, and the state of Colorado. Please call 719-499-8293 or visit our website at
www.startingoverworkshops.com/starting-over-on-the-inside

Many of us have believed statements that sounded wise but simply were not true. One old poem declared, “The bird with th...
05/17/2026

Many of us have believed statements that sounded wise but simply were not true. One old poem declared, “The bird with the broken wing will never soar as high again.” That may apply to birds, but it does not apply to the people God uses.

Scripture tells a very different story.

Abraham lied more than once to save himself, yet he became known as the friend of God. Jacob deceived his brother and fled in fear, yet God changed his name to Israel. Rahab lived in Jericho’s red-light district, yet God used her to save His servants and placed her in the lineage of Jesus Christ.

Jonah ran from God, yet preached one of history’s greatest revivals. John Mark deserted Paul on a missionary journey, but later Paul said, “Bring Mark with you, because he is helpful to me in ministry.”

Broken wings still fly in the kingdom of God. Click below for more
https://startingoverworkshops.com/.../broken-wings.../ See less

You may have seen a post a few weeks ago about the 60 baptisms that took place in the last six months at the Fremont Cor...
05/14/2026

You may have seen a post a few weeks ago about the 60 baptisms that took place in the last six months at the Fremont Correctional Facility in Colorado. Each baptism represents a life being restored and a future being rewritten.

Here is a picture of a few of them when we gathered to encourage them towards a deeper commitment to Christ. We wanted to assure them that we, as Chaplains and the body of Christ within that facility, are here for them, along with the churches outside.

We provided resources to help these men grow in their relationship with Christ. Please pray that they, along with those not pictured who have been released, will remain steadfast in their walk with Him.

May their lives be so radically transformed by Christ that other inmates will notice the incredible difference He makes in a redeemed life and will ask them about the reason for the hope within them!

To learn more and to be part of the life-changing ministry of Starting Over on the Inside, click here:
https://startingoverworkshops.com

Lives Are Changing!With deep gratitude, we’re witnessing God do what only He can do—transform lives through the hope of ...
04/28/2026

Lives Are Changing!
With deep gratitude, we’re witnessing God do what only He can do—transform lives through the hope of Jesus Christ. In the past six months, more than 60 men were baptized at Fremont Correctional Facility. Each one represents a life being restored, a future being rewritten.

Here in Colorado, our on-site Starting Over on the Inside workshops continue to grow, with 1,545 graduates across multiple facilities—and more workshops scheduled in the months ahead.

A Growing National Impact

Since launching our tablet-based program in July 2024, God has opened doors far beyond what we imagined:

•Over 72,500 incarcerated men and women have completed the program
53,495 in English
19,100 in Spanish

Thousands are hearing the gospel—many for the very first time
Participants engage at their own pace, completing lessons that lead to real, lasting change.

These aren’t just numbers. They are men and women finding hope in Christ, rebuilding their lives, and preparing to return to their families and communities with a new foundation.

We’re also expanding our reach through a partnership with Prison Alliance, integrating ongoing discipleship into our tablet program—ensuring that transformation doesn’t stop at completion, but continues long after.

As we look ahead to 2026, we’re praying for:

•More lives transformed through workshops and the tablet program
•Families restored as loved ones experience real change
•Increased financial support to expand into more facilities
•New partnerships to reach even more inmates

Would you consider joining us—through prayer or financial support—to bring hope where it’s needed most?

👉 Learn more: https://startingoverworkshops.com

“Remember those in prison as if you were together with them. Hebrews 13:3

Mark

A month ago, my father-in-law, Norman, passed away. I knew him for 40 years. His celebration of life was powerful—not be...
04/24/2026

A month ago, my father-in-law, Norman, passed away. I knew him for 40 years. His celebration of life was powerful—not because it was perfect, but because it was meaningful.

And it made me think…
One day, someone will stand up and talk about your life. What will they say? What if you could read your own obituary today?

There’s a story about Alfred Nobel, the inventor of dynamite. A newspaper accidentally published his obituary while he was still alive, calling him “the merchant of death”—a man who made his fortune by finding ways to kill more people faster than ever before.
He read it… and it shook him.

He realized, this is how I will be remembered.
So, he redirected his life and went on to establish what we now know as the Nobel Peace Prize—choosing to leave a legacy of peace rather than destruction.

Here’s a question we all need to consider:

If your life were summed up today, would you be proud of what’s written?
For some of us, the honest answer might be no. Maybe it wouldn’t reflect the life we hoped for… or the person we wanted to become.
But here’s the truth—we are not finished yet.

The story is still being written.
When you look at Scripture, even Moses didn’t step fully into his calling until he was 80 years old.

Which means this:
It’s not too late.
Not too late to change direction.
Not too late to forgive.
Not too late to live with purpose.

But it does require a decision.

The life you are living today is the story that will be told tomorrow. So if something needs to change—change it.

Your legacy is not what you say it will be; it is defined by your choices, starting now.

Your loved one’s graduation from "Starting Over on the Inside" (SOOTI) marks a powerful new chapter. Families like yours...
04/23/2026

Your loved one’s graduation from "Starting Over on the Inside" (SOOTI) marks a powerful new chapter. Families like yours have shared moving stories of sons, daughters, and parents who have been transformed through our program.

At SOOTI, we witness weekly life changes in prisons. Participants embrace a new mindset, turning heartbreak and past mistakes into hope and restoration—regardless of their sentence. This isn’t just a certificate for inmates, it’s a life-changing journey toward renewed relationships and brighter futures.

Change is tough, but it’s universal. Whether inside prison or out, we all face moments that demand a fresh start. SOOTI equips individuals to answer: “Where do I go from here?” with courage, faith, hope, and purpose, impacting families and communities.

Our Impact:
• Colorado: Celebrating our 53rd on -site courses since 2021, transforming over 1,545 lives.

• Nationwide: As of April 2026, over 53,495 people have completed the English course, and 19,100 have completed the Spanish course—for a combined total of more than 72,500 tablet graduates.

In 2025, we experienced remarkable growth in transforming lives, but it was also our most financially challenging year to date. We invite you to prayerfully consider becoming one of our financial partners.

Even a small gift can have a significant impact, leading to life change for inmates and their families and supporting their successful re-
entry into society.

Your tax-deductible contribution—regardless of the amount—fuels this mission, helping inmates rebuild their lives and reintegrate into their communities.

To give, click here: https://startingoverworkshops.com/

Thank you for remembering those in prison as if you were there with them. Hebrews 13:3

Your generosity, prayers, and encouragement can change lives forever. Join us today!

Mark Skalberg – Founder Director of Starting Over on the Inside

In a world is filled with so much chaos, we often don’t hear much good news. The Gospel is the good news! It always has ...
04/18/2026

In a world is filled with so much chaos, we often don’t hear much good news. The Gospel is the good news! It always has been, and it always will be. The gospel is transforming lives every day, one heart at a time.
Miquel is one of many experiencing life change from Fremont Correctional Facility in Colorado. If you like to find out more about how you can be part of changing lives in Colorado prisons and across the country, go here: https://startingoverworkshops.com/

As Jesus rode into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, the crowds were waiting for Jesus to enter the city like children in a para...
04/04/2026

As Jesus rode into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, the crowds were waiting for Jesus to enter the city like children in a parade, spreading cloaks and palm branches while shouting “Hosanna! Save now!” Riding a humble borrowed c**t, instead of an Arabian stallion, He fulfilled Zechariah’s prophecy as the promised King—meek, lowly, and bringing hope.

Yet beneath the celebration, Jesus knew the extremely difficult week ahead: betrayal, rejection, scourging, and the cross. The same voices cheering Him would soon cry, “Crucify Him!” Still, He pressed forward with unwavering love, carrying the weight of our salvation.

Two realities clashed that day. Common people—tax collectors, the broken, and the weary—gravitated to Jesus because He offered inward transformation, forgiveness that empty religion could never provide. “Come to Me,” He invited, “and I will give you rest.” Jesus is greater than religion! But religious leaders, fearing the loss of their power, responded with jealousy and judgment.

As Jesus drew near the city, He wept deeply—not for Himself, but with convulsive sorrow over Israel’s long rejection of God’s love. Generation after generation, God had loved Israel as his cherished vineyard, sending prophets and warnings, only to watch them chase other gods.

Now their Messiah had arrived, and the rejection that would unfold over the next few days would break His heart. Their Messiah had arrived, but they missed the time of their visitation.

The week that followed was unimaginably hard: from Gethsemane’s agony to false trial, the mocking, beatings, and crucifixion on Calvary. Jesus endured it all, knowing this was God’s deliberate sovereign plan to redeem us. Hands that praised became fists; shouts of joy turned to curses.

Yet through every tear and trial, hope burned because Sunday was coming. The resurrection exploded that hope into brilliant victory! The empty tomb declared that death, despair, and rejection could not win.

Jesus rose alive, offering the life and forgiveness religion could never give. What began with palms ended in triumphant glory, proving God’s love is stronger than any darkness.

Today, that same life-changing hope is yours. No matter how heavy your season feels, Jesus walked the hardest road, so you never walk alone. Cry out “Hosanna—save now!” Receive what He has finished for you.

This is the day of your visitation! Don’t miss it! His visitation can change your life now and forever. Sunday is coming for you!

In your darkest moments, when trials and opposition surround you, and there seems to be no way forward, remember this: t...
04/02/2026

In your darkest moments, when trials and opposition surround you, and there seems to be no way forward, remember this: the same God who parted the Red Sea for the Hebrews is still in the business of making a way where there is no way.

The Hebrews faced trials they never imagined after their great deliverance. They cried out, “How long will this last?” Many of us know that cry all too well. We long for simpler days, for the comfort of what once was.

It’s natural to feel that way. But here is the beautiful truth: you can’t go back, and you don’t have to go back. God is not calling you backward—He is leading you forward into something new and good.

Your troubles may feel overwhelming, but they are not greater than the Father’s love for you. The One who spoke the stars into existence, who holds entire nations like a drop in a bucket, is the same One who is intimately acquainted with every detail of your life. He sees you. He knows your fears. And He has not forgotten you.

Think of Jacob—running for his life, exhausted, sleeping with his head on a stone in a strange land. In that lonely, uncertain place, God met him and spoke words that still echo with hope today:

“I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go. I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you.”
Jacob woke up in awe and declared, “Surely the Lord is in this place, and I did not know it! How awesome is this place!”

Even in your hardest season, God is with you. He is watching over you. He is working behind the scenes in ways you may not yet see. His presence turns ordinary, difficult places into holy ground.

You are not alone in this. Your life—every breath, every step—belongs to the Lord. As Scripture says: “If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.” (Romans 14:8)

Let that truth be your soft pillow tonight. No matter what tomorrow holds, you are deeply, personally, and unconditionally loved by the God of the universe. He is faithful. He is good. And He will see you through.

So take heart, friend. This season will not last forever. And the One who holds your tomorrow is already holding you today.
You are loved. You are seen. You are never alone.

When you put your head on the pillow tonight, know that you are indescribably loved by him, and that is enough.

Who Is my Neighbor?The parable of the Good Samaritan is well-known around the world. It was told as a response from Jesu...
02/20/2026

Who Is my Neighbor?
The parable of the Good Samaritan is well-known around the world. It was told as a response from Jesus to an expert in the law who asked, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus replied by asking, “What is written in the law? How do you interpret it?”

He replied, "Love the Lord with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind; and love your neighbor as yourself." Jesus said, "You're right. Do this, and you will live." He wanted to justify his actions, so he asked Jesus, “Who is my neighbor?

In the parable, a Jewish man is beaten, robbed, and left for dead on the road from Jerusalem to Jericho. A priest and a Levite—respected religious leaders—see him and pass by on the other side. But a Samaritan—a despised outsider to the Jews—stops, bandages his wounds, pays for his care at an inn, and promises more if needed.

Jesus asks, 'Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man?' The expert replies, 'The one who had mercy on him.' Jesus says, 'Go and do likewise.'

The expert in the law’s question leads us to ask the same question: Who is my neighbor?

Is it the shut-in with debilitating arthritis who has been worn down over the years, hanging on to life by a thread?

Could it be the cancer patient, deprived of a long life and living unnoticed in a facility?

Or is it the homeless woman, stripped of everything she once knew, facing the harsh reality of the pavement?

Could it be the woman next door, worn down by a bad marriage, wishing she were dead?

Or is it the man at work who was once at the top of his game, now, in humility, must start all over?

Is it the heartbroken parent of an estranged child who has no idea where their child is and hasn’t received a call in years?

Or is it the prisoner who is facing the consequences of their actions, burdened with guilt, regret, and shame?

“Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you as a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’

“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ you Matthew 25:37-40

Lord, my heart knows the answer to the question. These are my neighbors. I cannot do everything to reduce the suffering in this troubled world, but I can do something, even if it is a small thing. Lord, open my eyes and show me who that is.

In our chaotic world, many people are unaware of their naivete until the painful consequences of poor decisions catch up...
02/02/2026

In our chaotic world, many people are unaware of their naivete until the painful consequences of poor decisions catch up with them.
After more than twelve years as a prison chaplain, I’ve seen how naivety has broken hearts, families, and communities.

Scripture calls this condition being “simple” or “naïve.” God’s Word gives us both sobering warnings and wonderful hope.

The naive fail to recognize evil.
“A prudent man sees danger and takes refuge, but the naive keep going and suffer for it.” Proverbs 22:3

The naïve are led by emotional appeals from influencers, podcasters, celebrities, and charismatic leaders. History gives tragic examples: the Cultic followers of Jim Jones in Jonestown and David Koresh in Waco followed their leaders to their deaths despite clear warning signs. The naive not only miss the coming disaster—they often enable one another.

We are all impressionable. As a young teenager, I fully immersed myself in the drug culture and the anti-war movement, becoming radicalized by Marxism and the revolutionary music of the late 60s to early 70s - ‘Taken it to the streets, singing songs and carrying signs that mostly say hooray for our side, imagine there are no countries, all we need is love.’

As a nonviolent protester at one of the demonstrations, I was arrested, and my mom was warned by the police what could happen to me if I continued down that path. I should have listened.

During the anti-war rallies, amidst all the pot-smoking and L*D dropping youth, there were radical groups like the Students for a Democratic Society (SDS) and the militant Black Panthers. They had their own agendas and sought to use the demonstrations for their purposes, distributing literature and inviting attendees to their own rallies.

The naive are easily persuaded to believe almost anything
“The simple inherit folly, but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.” Proverbs 14:18

Many who consider themselves “the compassionate enlightened” prove to be unwise and untrustworthy. Too often, the naive look the other way until the consequences return to haunt them.

The naive surround themselves with other naive people
“Let all who are naive and lack judgment come in here!”
Proverbs 9:15–16

We are shaped by upbringing, culture, media, and social circles, yet only God’s wisdom can truly deliver us from our naive tendencies.

Is there hope for the naïve? Yes!
“The LORD protects the simple-hearted; when I was in great need, He saved me.” (Psalm 116:6)

God knows our vulnerability. He guards us. Many times, He rescues us when we don’t deserve it. I am living proof of His amazing grace through many foolish seasons of my own life. Thank God!

God actively works to change the naive through His Word
“The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple...
“The unfolding of Your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.” Psalm 19:7;119:130

The same God who warns us so clearly also reaches out to us with tender compassion. He longs to make the simple wise, the naive discerning, and the broken whole.

There is still time, and there is still hope. His Word remains powerful enough to make anyone wise — even the most naive among us.

Address

P. O. Box 49214 Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs, CO
80949

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm

Telephone

+17194998293

Website

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