George J. Vassar is the founder and Executive Director of Mid-west I.M.P.A.C.T. Org. He has been working in the Department of Corrections for the past nine years, three of which he spent inside maximum security.

"In the three brief years I spent in maximum security, it became clear to me that jail had become more than just a holding tank for pretrial detainees. It had evolved into a sort of "sub-cultural existence. Inmates would meet their family and friends in lock up, shake hands and swap stories as if it were a annual reunion. Sons and daughters would visit their fathers behind three inches of glass and speak through reinforced metal screens just as their fathers has done before them, and their fathers before them. In short, what I was watching was a revolving door of third and fourth generation detainees. It is easy to understand why the Department of corrections had become a multi-million dollar industry. What I couldn't understand was why there were so many willing participants."

 Over the past five years, he has been assigned to the local Impact Incarceration Program, most commonly referred to as Boot Camp. As a Drill Instructor he had the opportunity to work more closely with the young men incarcerated in our correctional facility. As a recently promoted Sergeant, he has had the opportunity to experience the many challenges facing the staff and administration.

"I.M.P.A.C.T. has been a long held dream that has come from a desire to contribute to solutions rather than treat the symptoms. I've come to realize my ability to impact the lives of these young men by teaching them the skills necessary to exercise their personal power. I've become invested, involved and most importantly, I have become challenged. I would like to extend that challenge to you."

 Sgt. G. Vassar is a graduate from the SAIC with a BFA. He is certified through the United States Army Military Police School as a Rehabilitation Instructor. He has been awarded a Department Commendation and Letter of Recognition. As a certified Personal Trainer, a Life Coach, a Mentor and Life Skills Instructor, he works with an extreamly diverse client base. George helps those who are receptive and motivated to transform their environments, accomplish their goals, and design a fulfilling life.