Volunteers In Parole -- Volunteer Mentor of the Month
by Angel Sevilla

Timothy Smith is a highly respected member of the Sacramento County Bar Association and an active participant in the Christian Legal Society. A bright, compassionate and truly inspirational man, Tim joins the mentorship team of Volunteers in Parole eager to share his talents with people rejoining our community after a period of incarceration. "It is easy for me to hang out with friends, go to nice restaurants, live in a nice neighborhood, socialize with people at church, and never be exposed to people who are struggling and need a friend to help them get on their feet and overcome serious problems," Tim explains. "I see VIP as a practical way to express my Christian faith and to reach out to someone who needs a mentor and a friend."

Tim Smith sought mentorship after VIP mentors Jerry Hansen, Bruce Cline and match partner Trino Savala conducted a recruitment presentation with the membership of the Christian Legal Society. We were blessed to meet someone with so much to offer to others in need. Tim has his share of success in his 15 years of practice. He is a founding and managing partner of Sacramento's McKinley and Smith, and he has been an active member of the Christian Legal Society ever since his early days in law school. Prior to joining VIP, he dedicated his time to the development of prison ministries, cultivating hope and faith to those who are incarcerated. "I have learned a lot about the obstacles that exist for someone who wants to do the right thing, but has no one to help them make it," explains Tim.

Since Tim was introduced to his mentee Mark Beland, their friendship has soared. When two talented people invest in developing rapport the way they both have, it is inevitable that a lasting mentoring relationship will ensue. There was a time when Mark was looking for stable housing after completing six months of treatment. Tim helped him scan the housing market and consistently provided him with words of encouragement. He also played an active role in Mark's completion of treatment by being a strong, positive influence.

"Tim seems to want to give back to the community by being involved with VIP and by mentoring people in need," explains Mark. "He's genuinely concerned and we're developing a close friendship. The community needs more people of Tim's caliber."

Those of us who have the privilege of knowing Mark perceive him as a respectful, hard working and a genuinely friendly person. After completing his six months of treatment, Mark rejoins the greater community having won the respect and admiration of counselors and peers at the Effort Residential Treatment Center. Mark knows many people who are part of the VIP program, and their excitement fueled his desire to join. "I feel that I can call someone I can trust to give me positive influence and feedback and to steer me in the right directions when I get sidetracked." He is tenacious in his search for housing, and he utilizes all community services effectively. No matter what the challenges are, he never seems to lose heart. Tim explains, "Mark is a bright, talented man, who has gotten sidetracked by some things that are now in the past. He is motivated to work hard and stay clean and sober. He wants to not only become a productive member of society, but to make a difference in the lives of other people. He has a compassionate heart and a gentle disposition." One of Mark's objectives in sobriety and as a VIP participant is to surround himself with positive people. With Tim's support, he makes decisions with greater confidence and awareness, knowing that he consulted with one of the most respected members of the Sacramento legal community.

Tim joins our growing organization along with many other distinguished CLS attorneys in the Sacramento area who are participating in this venture. We are thankful for the support of The Christian Legal Society, especially Scott Kendall and Steven Burlingham, Gregory Day, Dana Cody, Bruce Cline, and L. Jerry Hansen.

For more information about Volunteers In Parole, or to sign up as a mentor, please contact Angel Sevilla at (916) 324-4142, Ext. 259 or at vipsacramento@home.com.

VIP mentor Timothy Smith and match partner Mark Beland.