Features
& News
Spring Newsletter
Our first newsletter of 2024. Hear from a volunteer on why they choose to serve with us, hear a story of redemption and get an update on our programs!
Annual Report: 2022/2023
With new staff, fresh branding, and thriving programs, this fiscal year was another eventful one for our organization.
Let’s Listen and Carry Each Other’s Burdens
When we meet with someone about our No One Leaves Alone community reintegration program, the first question we ask is “How can we help?”
Hope for Tomorrow: 2023 Gala Fundraiser Recap
Our annual gala fundraiser was this past Saturday and the event was a resounding success. Thank you to everyone who made it a night to remember!
Finding the Big Picture
Through our NOLA community reintegration program, Toni found the encouragement she needed to put the past in the rearview mirror.
A Trip to the Zoo: Recreation Helps People Adjust After Prison
Sometimes post-prison support is about spending time together, helping someone find joy in everyday things.
Finding Hope in a Fresh Start
A fresh start can be a chance to follow a different path from the get-go. But what if we don’t make the most of our fresh start?
In an Uncertain Future, Lean on the Rock
For many of us, the future can feel uncertain. Maybe we're uncertain about our health or the health of a loved one. Maybe it’s an employment situation. Maybe it’s climate change. Regardless of what’s weighing on our minds, uncertainty is part of the human...
Prisoners’ Justice Day 2023
Today is Prisoners’ Justice Day. It’s a day to remember the people who are incarcerated across Canada and honour those who have died in prison. We stand in solidarity with people affected by incarceration — including families and loved ones. We stand with people in...
Building Relationships That Bring Value to Every Person
Cut off from the world, it’s easy to lose hope and meaning. The words of Jesus in Luke 12:6-7, however, remind us that God knows and values everyone.
A Tribute to Jim Wilson
On June 19, 2023, Jim Wilson, a former M2W2 employee, passed away. For over two decades, beginning in 1980, Jim worked for us as a volunteer coordinator. He shared hope and belonging with countless people in prison.
Friendship: A Source of Strength and Encouragement to Change
At M2W2, we want to be a friend, a source of strength and encouragement so people can make positive changes. We want to be a resource to help them transition from prison to the community.
Save the Date: Gala Fundraiser Is October 21
Our gala fundraiser is October 21, 2023! Save the date and join us for dinner, stories, silent auction, and more. Event: M2W2 Annual Gala Fundraiser Theme: Hope for Tomorrow Venue: Clarion Hotel Abbotsford Date: October 21, 2023 This year we are thrilled to...
Let’s Help Lillian Find a Home That’s Accessible and Affordable
We want Lillian to find a place that’s accessible and affordable, and we need your help. We invite you to make a donation and help Lillian find a long-term home!
A Father to the Fatherless
Part of what makes God great is his capacity to meet our needs. He is able to defend us and set us free. He can be a father to the fatherless…
To Be Compassionate Is to See, Feel, and Act
As a non-profit organization that exists to mentor and support people, we use the word “compassion” a lot. But what is compassion?
The NOLA Difference: Practical Support and Positive Relationships
When obstacles blocked her path, Alexandra reached out to NOLA. She found practical support and, for the first time in her life, a sense of belonging.
A Chance to Work and Be Accepted
Through his experiences on work release at Hidden Treasures, Mike has felt purpose and belonging. He says, “It’s given me a sense that I am somebody.”
How Software Helps M2W2 Work Efficiently and Effectively
At M2W2, we use software to stay on top of day-to-day tasks, connect as a team, track the progress of program participants, and even plan and carry out wider objectives.
Hidden Treasures Is Closing Its Doors
After 23 years in downtown Abbotsford, Hidden Treasures is closing. Thank you to the staff and volunteers who poured their hearts into the store and made it a special place to shop, work, and volunteer.
A Call to Be Peacemakers: April 2023 Prayer Calendar
James writes, “Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.” These words reveal God’s heart for us: He wants us to be peacemakers. Thanks to his redemptive mercy, it’s possible.
Sharing Comfort, Giving Thanks: March 2023 Prayer Calendar
Praying for others can remind us of times when God has shown us compassion. It’s also an opportunity to praise him.
‘Beyond Prison Walls’: Finding Support and Healing Through a Mentor
When Glenn met his mentor through M2W2, he simply wanted someone to talk to. He didn’t know he would find a network of support that continues to this day.
Beauty Around Us, Love in Action: February 2023 Prayer Calendar
If you spend time outside in our province, evidence of our Creator’s unfailing love isn’t hard to find.
First West Foundation Continues to Support Healthy Community Reintegration Through No One Leaves Alone
Thank you, First West Foundation, for awarding us a $20,000 grant for our No One Leaves Alone community reintegration program, which has provided post-prison support to over 112 participants since last April.
A New Look for M2W2
We have a new logo! It captures the essence of our organization: people, togetherness, communication, and compassion.
To Act Justly, Love Mercy, and Walk Humbly with God: January 2023 Prayer Calendar
In 2023, what does it look like to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with God?
In the Darkest Hour, Light Appears
Christmas in prison can be hard. RJ usually tried to make the best of it, but in 2007 he found himself at a low point. Alone. Overwhelmed. Then God lit up a path.
Remembering George Epp
On December 2, 2022, George Epp passed away. He was 93. George and his wife, Adelaide, were a huge part of M2W2 for over four decades, beginning in the early 1980s. Together, George and Adelaide volunteered and donated to M2W2. They shared compassion with so many people in prison and on parole.
We are saddened by George’s passing and express our condolences to Adelaide and George’s many family members and loved ones. We also express our gratitude to George for his years of service. He was an inspiration, and we will miss him.
Volunteers Deliver Gift Bags to Women at the Warm Zone
This past Friday, staff and volunteers delivered 20 gift bags to women at the Warm Zone, a drop-in emergency shelter in Abbotsford. Each bag included toiletries, holiday treats, warm clothing, and a Christmas card.
Give Someone a Second Chance This Christmas
When I step back from the day-to-day details, I see how you are a part of a greater purpose. We all are. That purpose is caring for people.
Celebrate Enduring Love: December 2022 Prayer Calendar
The glow of Christmas lights on a bed of fresh snow can evoke a sense of nostalgia. It’s a nice feeling. In a world as divided as ours seems to be, it’s tempting to hold on to that feeling and even mistake it for Christmas. Thankfully, Christmas is about more than nice feelings…
NOLA: Support for Starting Over
When you start over with nothing, things can add up and occupy a lot of mental energy — enough to pull focus away from the big stuff: Staying sober. Staying out of prison…
New Name. Same Values.
At our AGM in September, membership voted to change our name to M2W2. While the hyphens and forward slash are gone, our core mission and values remain.
A Snapshot of Larry Antler
We first met Larry in 2005, and we developed a friendship over the years. Larry made us feel very comfortable and he had a good sense of humour.
The Early Days of M2W2: A Letter from Co-Founder Alice Chambers
It has been my privilege to have witnessed the growth of M2W2. It started from such humble beginnings to become what it is today. M2W2 has changed thousands of lives for the better.
The Forgotten Words of Jesus: November 2022 Prayer Calendar
Matthew 25 offers a guide for how we should act as Christians, but why do we forget about the last part? “I was in prison and you came to visit me.”
Remembering Dave Humphrey
At the end of September, Dave Humphrey died. Dave had a big smile, a deep, contagious laugh, and was among the first group of participants in No One Leaves Alone (NOLA), our community reintegration program.
Serving God as We Serve Each Other: October 2022 Prayer Calendar
In Matthew 6, Jesus reminds us that our worries can add up and draw our focus away from God. He also emphasizes our value. Because he loves us, he takes care of us.
Walmart Canada Grant Helps Meet Practical Needs
This summer we were awarded a Walmart Canada Community Grant. Thank you, Walmart, for helping us meet the practical needs of our program participants!
2021/2022 Annual Report Now Available
While the past year was full of challenges—prison closures, new systems, and more—we adapted. We learned how to deliver our programs and training in new ways. Read about it in our annual report…
M2/W2 Receives Grant From First West Foundation
Thank you to First West Foundation for awarding us a $10,000 grant from the Envision Financial Community Endowment.
To Listen As God Listens: September 2022 Prayer Calendar
What if we listened as God listens? What value could we impart to others? What respect could we show? What sort of connections could we create in our communities?
It’s Time to Recharge and Look Ahead: August 2022 Prayer Calendar
As you relax this summer, I hope you have a chance to look ahead — not to upcoming tasks but rather to a broader vista. What is God showing you about himself?
July 2022 Prayer Calendar
As we endeavour to bring practical support and mentorship to people affected by incarceration, I am grateful that I can rely on my faith in Jesus Christ.
June 2022 Prayer Calendar
By offering friendship and practical support to those in prison and on parole, we are sharing God’s love with people in need. I’m so thankful we can do this together.
May 2022 Prayer Calendar
What a blessing it is to be counted among God’s children! Amid so much uncertainty, we can turn to our Father and share with him our fears, doubts, and questions. And in these, he remains constant.
Board Vote Secures NOLA’s Future in the Fraser Valley
Last month, our Board of Directors elected to make No One Leaves Alone (NOLA) a permanent part of M2/W2. A community reintegration service available to people leaving prison, NOLA currently has over 50 participants, and that number is growing.
Canadian Race Relations Foundation Awards Grant to NOLA
Thank you to the Canadian Race Relations Foundation for granting $50,000 to our NOLA community reintegration program. This generous contribution helps bring mentoring opportunities and practical support to people affected by incarceration, including those who face additional obstacles due to racism and discrimination.
Beyond the Basics: Finding Housing and Work After Incarceration
For someone leaving prison on a fixed income, finding affordable, stable housing is next to impossible.
‘My Way of Giving Back’: A Work Release at Hidden Treasures
For Ian, volunteering at Hidden Treasures Thrift Store is a chance to make somebody’s day, a chance to feel human.
NOLA Now Offers a Spectrum of Support
NOLA now offers one-on-one support along with the circle-based support it has provided in the past.
Being a Prison Mentor Is Challenging and Rewarding
Volunteering as a prison mentor is a chance to build a consistent relationship with someone who might not have one.
April 2022 Prayer Calendar
Let’s praise God for his love and sacrifice. Through him, we can live in fellowship. For he inspires faith among us.
Al Hooge Was a Steady Volunteer and Board Member with a Heart for People in Prison
Last Friday, Allan Hooge passed away. Al was a long-time donor and volunteer, and had been serving on our Board of Directors since January 2019. He was 71 years old.
Is It Well? Thoughts on Love, Lent, and Serving Others
All is not well with the world. We are watching a full-blown war in Ukraine. Elsewhere the pandemic continues. Despite all of this, I want to say, “It is well with my soul.”
March 2022 Prayer Calendar
Download our March 2022 prayer calendar, and join us as we celebrate new life, and share our praises and struggles with God.
Meet TWU Practicum Students Kristen and Skylar
Back in January, two practicum students—Kristen and Skylar—joined us from TWU. Read about what they’ve learned over the past couple of months!
February 2022 Prayer Calendar
This February, join us as we celebrate God’s strength, love, and faithfulness. He is good! He provides shelter and protection.
M2/W2 Receives John and Chawna Volken Humanitarian Award
Thank you to the John Volken Foundation for recognizing our organization with the John and Chawna Volken Humanitarian Award.
January 2022 Prayer Calendar
“So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new!”
‘Breath for Life’: Finding Peace in a Promise
For many, the desire to serve folks in prison and on parole comes from a place of compassion. But what happens when we can’t be there to listen or help?
Volunteers Share Christmas Gift Bags with Folks at Kwìkwèxwelhp Healing Village
A group of volunteers at Hidden Treasures Thrift Store in Chilliwack, BC, prepared 25 gift bags for men incarcerated at Kwìkwèxwelhp Healing Village.
Hidden Treasures Abbotsford Featured in ‘The Cascade’
A recent article in “The Cascade” highlights Hidden Treasures Abbotsford as a place to find trendy clothes at affordable prices, and features an interview with Maggie Klassen, the store’s manager.
Hidden Treasures Volunteers Share Christmas Cheer With The Warm Zone
Last week, staff and volunteers at Hidden Treasures in Abbotsford prepared and delivered gift bags to the Warm Zone, a drop-in centre for women.
December 2021 Prayer Calendar
This Christmas, join us as we praise God for the gift of life, which he extends to everyone. Download our December prayer calendar here.
It Starts With a Desire to Change
Cindy knew it couldn’t continue. She had been in and out of jail for a decade, living a cycle of crime and addiction. She decided she’d had enough.
Every Donation Helps Our Community
This past weekend Hidden Treasures in Abbotsford was able to help six families affected by the flooding. Donations included clothing, mitts, jackets, hats, socks, and shoes—plus toys and puzzles for the kids, to help keep them busy while the families wait out the flood.
November Prayer Calendar
We are made to serve God. And through the grace of Jesus Christ, we are able to do the good things he has called us to. This month, let’s celebrate the work that God has laid before us, and take joy in the redemption that Christ freely gives.
The Way Back Up: Event Replay
Here is the replay of The Way Back Up, our 2021 fundraiser. This year’s event includes stories from volunteers, program participants, and more.
The Way Back Up: Our Annual Fundraiser Is Tomorrow Night!
After holding our first-ever virtual fundraiser last year, we are back online again! Our annual fundraiser begins tomorrow night at 7 pm—and we can’t wait to share more stories with you about the work our organization is doing in prisons and in communities.
October 2021 Prayer Calendar
This month, join us as we seek to learn more about Jesus Christ and discover new depths of his love. Pray that we find understanding and peace in the Word and that our lives will be filled with the Fruit of the Spirit.
Older Brother Bear Who Tells His Story
Like a skilled craftsman, Elder Pascal Adam is deeply familiar with the tools of his trade. His trade, of course, is helping others. His tools are loyalty, humour, wisdom, integrity, and openness, to name a few. He’s honed them through the years, working at recovery centres, at churches (as a preacher and a church planter), and, of course, in prisons.
Fall 2021 NOLA Update: Encouraging Progress
The NOLA pilot program is volunteer driven. This means volunteers lead the circles, provide guidance and support to parolees, and give weekly updates to case managers, who, in turn, empower and support volunteers. With week-to-week circle leadership in the hands of our capable volunteers, case managers are now able to oversee more circles.
Elder Pascal Adam Honoured and Recognized as Elder
Under the late-morning sun at Mill Lake Park in Abbotsford, BC, we gathered this past Saturday to honour Elder Pascal Adam and recognize his unwavering efforts to help people in prison and the community.
September Prayer Calendar
As summer ends and a new season begins, let’s seek God’s voice, with the Holy Spirit and God’s Word as our guides, so we can learn to follow his will and walk with him in love and faithfulness.
Prisoners’ Justice Day 2021
Today is Prisoners’ Justice Day, a day to remember the people who have died while incarcerated and acknowledge the overrepresentation of Indigenous and Black folks in Canada’s prisons.
Premier John Horgan and MLA Pam Alexis Visit M2/W2 Office
Premier John Horgan and Pam Alexis, MLA for Abbotsford-Mission, stopped by our office last Thursday and met with staff, volunteers, and program participants.
Prison Mentorship Returns to Select Institutions
With fewer COVID-19 cases in the Fraser Valley, some institutions have reopened to our volunteer mentorship program. This is good news!
August Prayer Calendar
This August, join all of us at M2/W2 Association and Hidden Treasures in prayer. Let’s shine our lights, and, through our actions, share the hope and promise of Jesus Christ.
July Prayer Calendar
This July, join all of us as we praise God for his timeless mercy and salvation. Let’s consider his incredible faithfulness while we seek rest and solace in God’s promises this summer.
2020/2021 Annual Report
This past year was a challenge for our organization, as it was for many, many others. Yet despite the suspension of programs at prisons, limits on indoor gatherings, and temporary store closures, our volunteers found new ways to stay connected with people in prison and in the community. Read about it in our Annual Report.
First West Foundation Helps Fund NOLA with $20,025 Grant
We were awarded a grant from the First West Foundation, through the Envision Financial Community Endowment. Thank you, First West Foundation and Envision! The funds will go toward our NOLA community reintegration program. In NOLA, participants like Jacob connect with volunteer mentors and access post-incarceration support and guidance. Read Jacob’s story and discover the impact of mentorship.
June Prayer Calendar
Together, let’s thank God that we have opportunities to love and serve one another through faith and with patience.
M2/W2 Receives Crime Prevention Grant from BC Government
Earlier this month, we received a $75,000 grant for our No One Leaves Alone (NOLA) community reintegration program. The grant was awarded by the provincial government through the Civil Forfeiture Crime Prevention and Remediation grant program.
May Prayer Calendar
Psalm 3:3-5 says, “But you, Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, the One who lifts my head high. I call out to the Lord, and he answers me from his holy mountain. I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the Lord sustains me.” Join us this month as we praise God for his goodness and sustenance!
April 2021 Prayer Calendar
Romans 15:13 says, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” This April, let us remember to ask God to build our trust in Him through the power of the Holy Spirit, and lead us to hope through His love, strength, and faithfulness.
‘New at the World’: Finding a Way After 31 Years
As he prepared for his release, Neil had a lot on his mind. He worried about being homeless in the middle of winter, finding a doctor or nurse, dealing with money, and living in a new city. “I thought, I’m scared to death. I want to make it so bad and I’ve got all these roadblocks. I’m gonna have to take them one at a time. The first thing I need is housing. Where do I go?”
NOLA: From Research Project to Pilot Program
After three years, the No One Leaves Alone (NOLA) Community Reintegration Project has ended. Yet we are excited to begin a new NOLA program this April.
Going Places
In March, Asia, one of our NOLA participants, moved from a room in shared accommodation to her own basement suite. Congratulations, Asia!
March Prayer Calendar
This month, join us as we praise God and lift our requests before Him in prayer. Our March 2021 prayer calendar is now available.
COVID-19’s Unseen Toll on People in Prison
According to a report released by the Office of the Correctional Investigator (OCI), 10 percent of the federal prison population have had COVID-19, compared to 2 percent of Canadians. These findings support the notion, long touted by advocates, that people in prison are highly vulnerable to viruses like COVID-19. The report also shows that the well-being of incarcerated people is threatened not just by illness, but also by the pandemic control measures.
February Prayer Calendar
This month let us praise God, for He is faithful and worthy of our trust. Let’s thank Him that we can bring our fears before Him and find confidence during uncertain times. Isaiah 41:10 says, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Download our latest prayer calendar here.
January Prayer Calendar
Isaiah 43:18-19 says, “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” This new year, let’s look forward to the new things God will accomplish and thank Him for the opportunity to be a part of His work. Our January 2021 prayer calendar is now available.
A Silver Lining in the COVID Cloud
Amid suspended programs, cancelled classes, and reshuffled living arrangements, two women discovered a new opportunity. But can they make it happen?
Gift Bags Bring Christmas Cheer to Women at ACCW
Last Tuesday, a group of volunteers prepared and delivered Christmas gift bags to women at Alouette Correctional Centre for Women (ACCW).
December Prayer Calendar
This December, join us as we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ! Let’s give thanks for the peace and joy Jesus brought to the world and look forward to the many ways He will continue to fulfill His promises!
So Far, So Good: Taking a Chance on NOLA
“It’s one of the first times in my life I’ve been this focused on wanting things to go well,” David said. “Before I was always hesitant or had another agenda. Now I’m free and clear. Now it’s about being a part of a community.”
At the Crossroads
The wildfire smoke had cleared over the weekend, and steep, green mountains were once again visible in the distance. If you ignored the fences and guard towers, this valley could be pretty. Either way, leaving this place felt good to Jason.