Through mentorship, accountability, and positive influence, the No One Leaves Alone (NOLA) program helps people on parole reintegrate into society. NOLA also works with inmates in prisons, helping them prepare for release. NOLA participants are known as dynamic members, which speaks to the challenges they face—and overcome—as they journey back to everyday life.
River Baptism
In December, one of our dynamic members was baptized in the Chehalis River. He has been living successfully in the community for the past six months, and the day was a celebration of everything that God is doing in his life. Chaplain Phillip from Mountain Institution organized the event and baptized him. Afterward the group roasted marshmallows and enjoyed the campfire.
Reconnecting Amid Trials
With the help of his NOLA circle, a dynamic member was able to get to the hospital in the nick of time—He was experiencing acute renal failure. His NOLA circle visited him in the hospital and encouraged him greatly. During this ordeal he was able to speak to his son after 10 years of separation. This is an answer to prayer and a step toward reconciliation. God truly works all things for our good!
Meeting Transportation Needs
God answered our prayers again when a van was donated to a dynamic member in need of transportation. Now he’s able to get to and from work. We’re also thankful that other dynamic members can access resources and recreational activities with the help of volunteers in their NOLA circles.
Thank You, Volunteers!
NOLA exists because volunteers give their time and hearts to help people successfully transition from prison. Our community is growing—one relationship, one step, one conversation at a time. Thank you to everyone who makes this possible.
This story originally appears in the Spring 2020 issue of Impact, the M2/W2 newsletter.