Ferris School Chaplain Calls For Suit Donations To Help Reduce Youth Recidivism

WILMINGTON — For young men at Ferris School, a suit isn’t just clothing — it’s a chance to reimagine who they are and who they can become.

That was the message from Mark P. Gardner, chaplain and volunteer services coordinator at Delaware’s secure juvenile detention facility, during this week’s “A Better Discussion” hosted by Jane Brady of A Better Delaware. Gardner said the simple act of wearing professional attire is helping residents reduce behavioral issues, build confidence and prepare for a future beyond incarceration.

“We’ve seen how putting on a suit changes the way these young men see themselves,” Gardner said. “One resident told me, ‘I feel like I can talk to the President.’ That kind of confidence can redirect a life.”

Suits as a tool for change

Gardner leads programs such as Mock Trial, where residents argue cases in donated business attire before volunteer jurists, and Monthly Manhood Mondays, where they attend classes in suits, ties and dress shoes instead of state-issued uniforms. Staff report a marked drop in behavioral problems on those days.

“These suits transform the young boys into young men,” Brady said during the discussion. “They make them see themselves differently in the mirror, and that vision carries beyond Ferris.”

But Gardner noted that many residents serve only about six months at Ferris — not long enough to cement lasting change. As recidivism rates climb, he believes something as simple as access to appropriate clothing can ease their transition. “Some of these young men want to take their suits home when they’re released,” he said. “That shows they’re ready to step into a new identity.”

Call for donations

Gardner is urging Delawareans to contribute conservative, professional suits — navy, charcoal, black or brown — along with ties, dress shirts and lace-up shoes. Flashy or novelty clothing is discouraged.

Donations can be arranged by contacting mark.gardener@delaware.gov.

A book on behavior and belief

Gardner, a longtime minister and author, recently published Keep the Change: A Book for Redirecting Behavior in the Lives of Adjudicated Youth. The book builds on his “Behavior Reflects Belief” approach, encouraging young people to align their actions with the values they claim to hold.

“If they can be influenced to do wrong, they can also be influenced to do right,” Gardner said. “A suit may seem small, but it can be the start of that change.”

Brady added that initiatives like Gardner’s reduce the burden on victims, communities and taxpayers. “We don’t prosper when we’re constantly pulling people back from behind the eight ball,” she said. “Programs like this give them the courage to make hard, but right, choices — and that makes Delaware stronger.”

Editor’s Fact Box: How You Can Help Ferris School Residents

What’s Needed:

Conservative business suits (navy, charcoal, black, brown, dark gray)
Dress shirts and ties (standard professional styles)
Lace-up dress shoes
Note:Flashy or novelty clothing (e.g., bright red suits) is not appropriate.

Why It Matters:

Ferris residents who wear suits during Monthly Manhood Mondays show fewer behavioral issues and higher confidence.
Some boys request to take their suits home upon release, a sign they want to continue positive change.
Delaware’s juvenile recidivism rate has risen to 85%, underscoring the need for programs that help young men see themselves differently.

Where to Donate:
Email mark.gardener@delaware.gov to arrange drop-off or pickup.

Related Resource:
Mark P. Gardner’s bookKeep the Change: A Book for Redirecting Behavior in the Lives of Adjudicated Youth(available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble) expands on his philosophy:“Behavior Reflects Belief.”