Telling My Story is a great program that has inspired me — and many women like me. I have participated in many programs while in prison, but not many have empowered me with such direction in my life. Telling My Story helped me to understand what my voice and others can do to have a positive impact on change and to offer hope to those who have none.
One of the most important things that I saw Telling My Story accomplish was to bridge the gap and empower our future decision makers with the knowledge of the system by putting faces on those that are in the system who are motivated to change. The students who participated in the program with Pati are at an advantage because they are exposed to the other side of the fence, which allows them to make a connection with the reality rather than the stigma and stereotypes.
I saw many people change because of the program after being struck with the hope of new life after prison. I can certainly say that the program has given me much more than I have given it, but hope to reverse this in the coming future as I become part of the fabric that keeps the program running.
— Robin, Inmate Participant