by Donna Clark RN, Director
We had a surprise visit the other day from a client we had assisted for many years. He was one of our success stories having gotten mental health care, housed, and a case manager. It’s been almost a year since we saw him and he was smiling from ear to ear, so proud of himself for maintaining his independence and doing well. He just wanted to check in and see how everyone was doing. As we talked, he told us of his desire to help other people recently released from jail to return and be a part of the community. He had been incarcerated for many years as a young man and he had a terrible time trying to acclimate to his new environment when he was released. He had some great ideas about what needs to be done and had even gotten to speak to the governor when he was in town. His enthusiasm and desire to help others was moving and we encouraged him to learn as much as he can about what services are already available to recently released inmates.
It’s not often our clients return to thank us and I don’t think we have ever had one want to learn how to help others with similar challenges. He was a great challenge when we first encountered him; frequently failing to follow through on most things he had to do to get his life in order. His need for mental health care was paramount but it took us almost a year and a half to get him seen regularly and be compliant with his care. Now here he is wanting to help others.
Matthew 25: 30-39
H.O.P.E. 