L.M. Montgomery said, “Isn’t it nice to think that tomorrow is a new day with no mistakes in it yet?” But what about those whose mistakes seem to loom over each new day and every interaction?
This is the reality for released inmates in the community. The past feels ever-present. It awaits in the morning and makes reintegration much more difficult. It takes courage to engage a world that feels like it is constantly judging. It takes courage to begin each day… again.
For many released inmates, believing that change is possible can be difficult. Yet change is possible with support and courage.
What Is Courage?
According to Shannon L. Alder, “Courage doesn’t happen when you have all the answers. It happens when you are ready to face the questions.” Volunteers in our No One Leaves Alone (NOLA) program model the courage to face the questions and the courage to change. Along with NOLA case managers, volunteers provide care and support during the reintegration process. They help NOLA participants (dynamic members) build a healthy social support network, and develop the tools and skills necessary for life in the community.
Presently, we are working through 61 NOLA applications, with 16 dynamic members already participating in the program and growing in courage. Eleven of these members are in various levels of incarceration (minimum, medium, maximum, recovery treatment centres) and five are in the community.
Success and Struggles
One individual has successfully completed a substance abuse and trauma treatment program and graduated from a level one yoga instructor class. Another has celebrated one year of freedom in the community. One has been approved for a work release to Hidden Treasures Thrift Stores (the first time from a medium-security institution), while another has just been released and is working toward completing the necessary employment tickets.
At the same time, success can also come with struggles. One dynamic member was remanded into custody due to a relapse. He returned to the community thanks in part to his involvement with NOLA, and he continues to trust in Christ for healing and strength. Another member is facing a new charge, but because he has made significant improvements—seeking addiction treatment and working with NOLA—the judge and arresting officer supported his request to remain in the community.
Next Steps: Supporting NOLA and Empowering Change
With a significant backlog of applications, we need new volunteers to help share the work of restoration. Our next NOLA training session will be in January 2020. Get in touch with us if you want to learn more about NOLA or if you’re interesting in volunteering. In the meantime, please spread the word and keep us all—staff, volunteers, and dynamic members—in your prayers.
The NOLA program is funded in part by Public Safety Canada, yet support from the community is critical to the success of this program. Please consider donating to M2/W2 Association and the NOLA program. Together, we can make a difference. One relationship, one circle, one step at a time, we can restore our community.