Female inmates face unique challenges when transitioning out of prison and into civilian life. In addition to having basic needs met, they often need emotional support as well. One area where women leaving prison are especially vulnerable involves relationships. According to the National Resource Center on Justice-Involved Women, many female inmates report having experienced abuse as a child or adult. They also suffer from mental health problems such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance abuse. Unhealthy past relationships often impact the identity and self-worth of these women and make it difficult for them to develop healthy, supportive relationships to aid in their successful transition out of prison. One way to make the transition smoother is to teach them how to build and maintain healthy, mutually beneficial relationships. ShowMe Healthy Relationships (SMHR), a program offered through Central Missouri Community Action (CMCA), provides this education and support. 

 

Amanda was incarcerated at the Women's Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and Correctional Center (WERDCC) when she participated in the Show Me Healthy Relationships program. When she first met Amanda, Nolanda Dodd, CMCA ShowMe Healthy Relationships Program Manager, says that she was eager to participate and always contributed to group discussions. 

 

Not long after completing the ShowMe Healthy Relationships program, Amanda completed her prison term and moved to Columbia, MO. Recovering from chemical addiction, Amanda chose to reside in a transitional living house.

Nolanda had asked Amanda to let her know where she was living once she was out of prison, so Amanda called Nolanda after settling into her new home. Not long after their first conversation, Amanda told Nolanda that she had a job interview. 

 

“She was very excited about the job," said Nolanda, "but wasn’t sure if she would be able to buy a uniform if she got the job." 

 

As part of completing the SHMR program, participants are eligible to receive a gift card, and Amanda was waiting to receive hers. Because Amanda was living in Columbia Nolanda decided to deliver the card to her in person the day after the job interview. The timing for this delivery was perfect because Amanda was offered the job and used the gift card to purchase the uniform needed to begin work. 

 

Although things were going well for Amanda, she was experiencing a lot of change in a short period. Adjusting to life outside of prison, adapting to a new job, and working to remain sober was stressful. Recognizing the need for support, Amanda reached out to the Show Me Healthy Relationships team and began the Taking Care of You stress management class. Through this class, Amanda learned healthy ways to manage her stress, helping her to remain focused on her sobriety and reaching her goals. 

 

Because of the SMHR program, Amanda's transition from prison to civilian life has been successful. She has continued to work, saving enough money to purchase her first car, and has begun to identify how she wants to give back to her community. 

 

"Amanda recently started a new job working for a behavioral health organization where she is helping other people with resources and supports," said Nolanda. 

 

Amanda said she is grateful for the ShowMe Healthy Relationships program and staff. “I feel like being able to take the classes has helped me not feel supported and has taught me it’s ok for things to take time." 

 

Learn more about the ShowMe Healthy Relationships program here. 

 

 

Tell us a little about yourselves.

I am the President of Central Methodist University and Judy is the first lady of the University. The head of our household  is a 9-month old Shih-Tzu named Whitley. We have seven grandchildren that love to run around the president’s home when they visit. Among our many hobbies, we love music, reading, and travel.

 

How did you learn about Central Missouri Community Action?
Central Methodist has a long history with board membership at CMCA. John Flanders, professor of economics, served on the board. Judy replaced John when his term expired. Judy loved her CMCA service but was over-committed in her philanthropic groups. I took her place and loved every minute of it.

 

With so many non-profit organizations in central Missouri, what made you want to support CMCA specifically?
 I was in the first Head Start program in 1965.  I give a tremendous amount of credit to that program and to my teacher, Ms. Jessica, for helping me close the educational gap between the more affluent kids and myself in later grades.

What led to your decision to become a monthly donor to CMCA? 
I saw the great work that went on at all levels of the organization.  I heard the testimonies of clients whose lives were changed by CMCA.  I personally witnessed the dedication of the staff.  I could feel the vocation, the sense of calling, that ran throughout the organization.

 

Are there any stories about your connection with CMCA? 
In a meeting, I was blown away by the talent and dedication of a member of the CMCA staff. This individual performed at an unbelievably high level, reducing highly-complex regulations and procedures into understandable language for my fellow board members and myself. The individual’s command of the material and presentation skills were impressive in every sense.

 

After the meeting, I was intentional to compliment Darin on his incredibly professional staff member. When Darin told me that particular professional was a former client, I knew then that this was an organization that changed lives and I should play a larger role.

 

Is there anything else you’d like to add? 
There is great competition for our charitable dollars—I know because a large part of my job involves fundraising for the University. I know that my contributions to CMCA are going directly to help those in need. I know that CMCA is providing a hand up rather than a hand out.  As a former board member, I had a front row seat to view the contribution CMCA makes to its region. There is no better bang for our charitable bucks than Darin and his CMCA team.