About Us

John and Marian Leonardson have a heart of compassion for people coming out of the prison environment. They have both worked for years to help ex-offenders get their lives straight and center their decisions around Jesus Christ. Inmates’ lives are changed one life at a time when coming out of prison. 

In prison ministry since 1980, John has worked inside many prisons, run three prison ministries and an aftercare center and written three manuals. MentorCare loves to work with churches or aftercare centers to help them establish or improve their ministry. He has also traveled to several countries to train local Christians to work in prison ministry. MentorCare believes the key issue facing our criminal justice system is re-entry. John specializes in teaching, mentor training, understanding the criminal mind, ministry analysis, fundraising and literature development.

Rev. Leonardson carries a deep sense of calling to this ministry and serves as  the Teaching Elder in Without Walls Church. Marian has been his wife since 1971 and they have three daughters.

Marian Leonardson, LMSW–AP is a Licensed Master Social Worker, Advanced Practitioner. She can offer consultation to your ministry and make you aware of social programs and resources from which you may benefit. She has a wide range of experience in child welfare, medical and psychiatric social work and aftercare ministry.

Marian is a perfect co-worker with her strong background in social work and keen interest in helping ministries and former inmates. She knows how to gently delve into a person’s background with the goal of finding the resources to address their issues. Marian shares the calling and compassion for people finding their way into successful life. Together with John, they make a powerful team backed by years of experience and spiritual maturity.