I haven't posted in a while because I've been busy typing out a book for another prisoner, and because I've been busy with education.
Recent research done by the RAND Corporation has shown a direct correlation between education, and incarceration and re-incarceration rates. The less educated one is, the greater their chance of incarceration, and for those already here, the greater the chance of coming back.
The federal government failed to acknowledge this connection when it eliminated access to PELL grants for prisoners. This despite the fact that the majority of prisoners would have qualified for PELL grants pre-incarceration. Additionally, Michigan has traditionally taken the approach of making education behind bars a difficult task. But things are slowly changing.
I'm involved here with a group of prisoners who are taking a grassroots approach to education behind bars. Our college group is involved with helping tutor GED students, developing and facilitating college-prep classes, and researching and providing information and help to inmates that want to start college while incarcerated.
It's very rewarding to be a part of helping others empower themselves and plan for a better future. I myself am now in college (through correspondence) thanks to the generosity of a couple of friends. I am currently taking a philosophy class and loving it! My goal is a bachelors degree in Interdisciplinary Studies (business and psychology) so I can continue to pursue my passions of entrepreneurship (business) and lay counseling (psychology).
If you're interested in getting updates about both my personal college in prison experience, and my participation in the college group here at this facility please write me (see my contact info in my profile) and let me know.
Success doesn't occur in a vacuum and I need others who will advocate for, and support and encourage my efforts for myself and in helping others. I believe that everyone has value and potential, regardless of their past poor decisions.
I hope you do too. Please find out how you can get connected with advancing education in prison. I hope to hear from you.
