In her home above the lights of Portland, Kathi/Angel Boss Invited judges, lawyers, doctors, educators, first line mental health responders, politicians, philanthropists, and householders and religious leaders to gather and listen to readings from the book that exposed the realities of incarceration alongside the leaders who are creating hope and progress in prison reform.  The Good Fight Has Begun

The first co-presenter was none other than the man who signed my release papers, former Oregon Governor John Kitzhaber. 

The goal is to develop a strategy, funding and delivery system that can effectively and sustainably move public, private and philanthropic resources upstream to address the root causes that undermine the success of children and families in our state. 

Enjoy reading John’s blog: https://blog.johnkitzhaber.com

The second presenter was Mike Wenrick, Director of Prison Development for Prison Fellowship.

The program he presented is called The Academy. Nothing remotely like this was offered during my years at Coffee Creek Correctional Facility:

The Academy guides participants to identify the life-controlling issues that led to their incarceration and take responsibility for its impact on their community. Using biblically based material, the Academy specifically targets criminal thinking and behavior, life skills, addictions, victims impact, and prosocial culture change. The Academy aims to develop prisoners who have leadership potential to serve as positive peer mentors and supporters of a positive culture-based on Gospel-centered values, throughout prison systems. Those who complete the program and are preparing fo release will have the opportunity to connect to post release resources and support in metropolitan areas.

More information here about Mike and  Prison Fellowship: https://www.prisonfellowship.org/about/academy/

The third presenter was Lenanne Miller of All Star Staffing and Jails to Jobs. Lenanne teaches the inmates how to become reliable and dependable employees. “I tell them they have to do their very best, or they will take away the opportunity for ten parolees who come afterward.”

Jails to Jobs. It’s mission: a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to equipping previously incarcerated and soon-to-be released men and women with the tools and resources needed to find employment and successfully re-enter the workforce.

Please learn more about Jails to Jobs here: https://jailstojobs.org/about-us/mission-and-core-values/

A second talk was held at the noble Racquet Club by hosted by Julia Hall, Multimedia Producer/Web Designer and philanthropist. My co-presenter was Ramona Mathany, CEO at All Star Labor & Staffing, (above) and a religious volunteer at Coffee Creek Correctional Facility and represent a lifeline of humanity for the women inmates. 

Please read more about All Star Labor here: allstarlabor.com

I was humbled and touched by the outpouring of emotion from the audience in Portland, Oregon. On those nights, I could feel the shift toward the future of prison reform. The good fight has begun.