Whenever I take a visitor to witness a weekly session of our groups, whether in minimum or maximum security, they come away in awe of our men and women, their intelligence and their self-awareness.
These sessions are raw, real, and relevant. A mental health expert and dear friend of mine once commented about her observations: “I spent so much money and so many years getting my degrees in psychology, and these inmates have just demonstrated that they can be brilliant and effective with each other, simply by following the curriculum in the Blue Book!”
The reason our work is so rewarding is that we witness personal transformations. We see people forgive themselves and others, and as volunteers, we provide the eyes and ears of society. Members of Reaching Out From Within are brave beyond words. They make themselves vulnerable in a dangerous place, and pledge to be a positive support system for each other. Confidentiality is key. Respect is expected. Trust is built.
We have a “Go to Jail Free” card with our contact information on it. If you want to attend a session and observe this program at work, let us know. But be prepared. You too will be changed.
