A Proven Refuge with Unparalleled Success
Jonathan’s Refuge is the only organization of its kind in the world to maintain a 0% recidivism rate. We have never had a man in our program return to prison. Our mission is to elevate the men we serve, help them secure jobs that can sustain a successful life, and empower them to build lasting, healthy habits.
The Founder's Journey
The inspiration for the refuge stems from the personal experiences of our founder, Jonathan Brown. As a child, he often found himself in need of a sanctuary but never had one. Jonathan spent years on the streets and involved in a life of crime before transforming his life through business and ministry. After years of hardship, he dedicated his life to creating the refuge he never had.
A Unique Approach to Rehabilitation
Jonathan’s approach is unconventional and transformative. He invests all funds directly back into the men's well-being and personal growth. To broaden their horizons, he provides them with experiences many have never imagined. With the help of board member Brian Egan, Jonathan purchased a yacht, speed boats, and other watercraft for the men to use. He also outfits them for high-altitude mountaineering and takes them to cultural events such as concerts, plays, operas, and even NASCAR races. These activities are designed to show the men a world of new possibilities.
A Lifelong Commitment
Our founder's passion runs deep. He is dedicated 365 days a year to helping our men change their lives forever. Jonathan is an eternal optimist, always looking to the sunset with anticipation for the wonders a new day will bring.
Who We Serve: We provide structured housing for men from diverse backgrounds, including those re-entering society from prison or managing addiction and mental health issues.
Core Policies: We enforce a strict clean and sober policy with random drug testing. The property is monitored by 24/7 video surveillance to ensure safety and accountability.
Community Supervision: We partner directly with the Department of Corrections (DOC) and the Marysville Police Department. Officers from both agencies conduct regular monthly inspections and check-ins to support residents and ensure community safety.
Our founder JB with a climbing partner Tim Kaliff summiting Mount Adams Washington State.
Our founder at the summit marker of Mount Adams. Located in Washington State, Mount Adams is one of the five active volcanoes.
As a little boy, our founder found refuge in fishing, going out on the ocean, rivers, and lakes. He fished most rivers and lakes in Northern California, Northern Georgia, Texas, Maine, Kansas, Oklahoma, and the Pacific Northwest, and about half a dozen countries around the world. He now loves to take the men from the refuge on fishing trips.
Brian Egan one of our board members playing with one of our therapy dogs Beast. These therapy dogs are critical in our men adjusting back to society and having suffered a lot of PTSD. These dogs by special trainers.
Our lead therapy dog Princess Belle Brown is cool as ice with her shades on at our mountain office AKA Uncle Brian's pad.
Our lead therapy dog Princess Nalla Brown sitting next to our newest therapy dog 11 weeks old Princess Nala Brown.
Our founder Jonathan Brown went down many paths some by choice some forced. But all those paths led him to where we're at now.
Our lead therapy dog Princess Nalla Brown sitting next to our newest therapy dog 11 weeks old Princess Nala Brown.
In this conversation, as Amber the cat brought a soothing and keen presence, TJ's leadership transcended those lacking interest or excitement, offering a vision that elevated all who listened, shaping a fantastic future with the dignity, kindness, brilliance, and grace that defined TJ's mentorship.
As Bell prances into Starbucks, the baristas' eyes sparkle with delight, each one halting their work to be near her, drawn by her magnetic charm. Bell's presence transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary, as she basks in the adoration of her Starbucks "girls," a beautiful testament to the profound connection between human and canine.
Tiye, undeterred by the lack of fingers, diligently creates the world’s greatest logo, destined to inspire change one person at a time and embodying the fantastic grace of Rev, who supervised with unwavering care. While Bell waits patiently to play outside, aware of Tiye's exceptional talent and hard work, the beautiful and brilliant GCS logo promises to revolutionize its audience, proving Tiye can surpass those with fingers through sheer determination and ingenuity.
Amber and Bell, nestled together as the day fades into night, create a scene of fantastic and beautiful tranquility. Their bond radiates a profound sense of peace and warmth, a testament to the extraordinary power of companionship that transcends even the most eloquent of friendships. 🌟🐾💖
Basking in the warm sun, Tiye feels God's favor, knowing his prayers will be answered after one week—just in time to help him with this hike, and as he climbs the mountain, pushing his limits, he cherishes this fresh day granted by God's grace, knowing he's been given a second chance to truly live.
As Bell and Gidget curl up together, they peacefully drift off to sleep, the soothing sounds of the football game playing in the background. Their fantastic and beautiful companionship creates a serene harmony that enriches the moment with profound tranquility.
When Bell strolls into Starbucks, the staff's expressions brighten with joy, halting their activities to bask in her presence. Bell's arrival transforms the mundane scene into a moment of remarkable charm, as she soaks up the admiration of her beloved Starbucks girls. Among them, there's one special girl Bell loves the most, and her eyes light up with happiness every time she sees her, exemplifying the profound bond between humans and therapy animals.
As Rev, Jesse, Mikey, TJ, and Tiye explore the mountain, reconnecting with nature and each other through dynamic team-building exercises, they find their spirits uplifted and their mental health significantly improved.
Cameron stands tall and confident, dressed in a sharp suit and tie, ready for an important event. At Jonathan Refuge, men like Cameron are mentored and trained on how to present themselves properly in life. Whether he's preparing for a job interview or a special date, Cameron's polished appearance and self-assured demeanor are a testament to the valuable skills he's gained through our program. 😁
The day that Rev and Cam overcame a hard obstacle. Rev had financed Cameron getting his CDL commercial driver's license so he could drive 18 Wheeler big trucks. This was the day he graduated and got his license. Shortly thereafter, he went from Macon, just a measly minimum wage, to making six figures. Now he can afford the lifestyle that Rev turned him on to. Plus, ref says now he can put a few extra bucks aside for his Papa Revs' retirement, just kidding.
JB, with boundless enthusiasm and unwavering passion, instills in Jesse the mindset of a champion, empowering him to overcome any obstacle with unstoppable determination and unshakable confidence, thanks to the powerful insights from the Tony Robbins conference, which our program generously funds, investing thousands of dollars to ensure our men can attend these life-changing events.
Jesse is being mentored by JB on how to wisely invest his hard-earned pay, ensuring he builds a secure and prosperous future with confidence and enthusiasm!
Every Thursday from 6 PM to 7:30 PM, we gather for fellowship, bringing meals to share. From 6 to 7, we connect, enjoy each other's company, and share about our week. At 7 PM, we receive an uplifting message, lasting less than 30 minutes, from Rev. AKA JB—our Mentor, Program Director, and Founder.
Rev, Cameron, and Jesse take a well-deserved day off from work to enjoy a fantastic movie, strengthening their friendship while recharging their spirits.
One of our men, Jesse, dressed up with unwavering determination, prepared for an important event. At Jonathan Refuge, the men are mentored and meticulously trained on how to present themselves with dignity and professionalism in life. Whether it's for a crucial job interview or a meaningful date, Jesse's resolve to succeed is evident in every detail. 😁