Dismas House of Indiana, Inc’s Post

🌟𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐏𝐮𝐫𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐞: 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐉𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐀 𝐒𝐞𝐥𝐟-𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐫🌟 Today, I want to share a powerful story about resilience and advocacy that illustrates the strength of the human spirit—Tammy Scudder’s journey. After experiencing the harsh realities of the federal prison system, Tammy discovered just how inadequate mental health and medical care can be for women behind bars. This eye-opening experience fueled her passion to create meaningful change. Throughout her incarceration, Tammy turned to her creativity in writing and photography as a means of self-expression and healing. Through her imaginative lens, she captured the struggles and triumphs of women facing unimaginable challenges, documenting their stories and the systemic issues they encountered. This artistic outlet not only helped her find her voice but also lit a fire within her to advocate for those who felt voiceless. From her experiences, Tammy founded the Indiana Reentry Corporation, a dedicated initiative aimed at addressing the barriers to reentry that so many face after incarceration. These barriers—ranging from stigma and discrimination to limited access to mental health resources and employment opportunities—can feel insurmountable. Yet, Tammy believes deeply in the potential for change and redemption. It’s essential to understand that labeling individuals as “felons” is dehumanizing and perpetuates harmful stereotypes. Not every person with a criminal record is a bad person; many are striving to overcome their past and fight their own daily battles. Society’s stigma can be a heavy burden, often preventing individuals from moving forward and rebuilding their lives. Tammy’s story reminds us that empathy and support can make a profound difference in the lives of those seeking a second chance. Let’s challenge the stigma and create spaces of understanding and acceptance for everyone, regardless of their past. 💡Let’s engage! How can we work together to break down barriers and support individuals on their journey toward healing and reintegration? Share your thoughts in the comments below! #TammyScudder #MentalHealthAdvocacy #SecondChances #Reentry #Empathy #BreakTheStigma #IndianaReentryCorporation #Inspiration

In John's November blog post, "Second Chance" vs "Fair Chance," John contrasts the difference between what a fair chance actually is versus a second chance as seen in society. 180 Demo is a social enterprise focused on creating a pathway for people with challenging backgrounds such as incarceration, addiction, or homelessness. To provide real fair chances, it's essential to incorporate a "Right Now Check" instead of a "Background Check." See what a "Right Now Check" is and how he uses it in his own life. #secondchances #fairchance #fairchanceemployer #columbus #ohio #reentry #rightnowcheck #backgroundcheck

Life can take us through unimaginable twists and turns, and my story is a testament to the power of resilience. As a child, I found myself in a nightmarish situation, being exploited and pimped out against my will. But I refused to let my past define me. I made a choice to turn my life around, not only for my own healing but also to ensure that no child would ever have to endure what I did. Today, I stand strong as a survivor, advocate, and educator, leading workshops on sexual safety for kids. Never underestimate the strength within you, even in the darkest of moments. I’ve learned that, no matter how dire your circumstances, you can rise above them. Your experiences, both positive and negative, can become your greatest assets in helping others. Remember, there is someone on this planet who needs you and your unique perspective. By sharing our stories, we not only find healing and purpose but also inspire hope and change in others. Let’s continue to be beacons of light, proving that transformation is possible, and together, we can make this world a safer place for our children. #Survivor #Advocate #Empowerment #Resilience #inspiration

Embrace the power of genuine connections and let your true self shine! 💫 What parts of yourself are you struggling to bring forward due to fear, humiliation, or conditioning? Let’s explore and overcome these barriers together. 🙌 🔍 Want to dive deeper? Visit VanEthanLevy.com for more insights and support. 💬 Comment below, share this post with others, and follow me on Facebook at Trans Advocating Therapist & Educator. #AuthenticSelf #GenuineConnections #PersonalGrowth #TransAdvocacy #EmbraceYourself #SelfDiscovery #VanEthanLevy #FollowMe #ShareTheJourney #FaceBookCommunity

The Power Of Partnerships In Creating A Safer Community *Although no specific cases or details are discussed, this episode includes mentions of Child Sexual Abuse which may be distressing to some individuals* Katie Cashman, Executive Director of Change the Conversation, discusses their mission to change the conversation about childhood sexual abuse. The organization aims to engage communities in the prevention of and healing from child sexual abuse through prevention education, professional training, and counseling grants. Katie explains the importance of having conversations about child sexual abuse and breaking down the stigma surrounding it. She also discusses the power of partnerships and collaboration in expanding the reach and impact of Change the Conversation. Connect with Katie Cashman: Changetheconversation.org #changetheconversation #changetheconversationonmentalhealth #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #creatingasafespace #safespace #safespaces #safespaces4youth #preventionservices #community #saferspace #safefuture #change #changemaker #entrepreneur #survivor #survivors #collaboration #counseling #therapists #therapy #counselors #stopthestigma #lookingahead ~Katie Cashman

Advertising works. As humans we are influenced by what we see and hear. Evil is getting bolder, we need to as well. It’s imperative for survivors and professionals to stand up and speak the truth about what abuse is and the wounding it causes. We must boldly proclaim the truth. We cannot allow pedophiles and perpetrators to continue to try to monopolize the minds of the people. Naturists* say that children are safe in these environments because they are there with supervising adults. But not every child has a responsible, caring adult looking out for them. No one saved me from Glen Eden.  #NudistAgenda #WarriorHealer #NudistCamp #NudistCommunity #Nudist * The practice of non-sexual social nudity in private and in public. Also refers to the cultural movement advocating and defending that lifestyle.

As we begin this week, let us take a moment to reflect on the profound impact of maternal incarceration on children. These innocent lives are often caught in a cycle of emotional turmoil, grappling with feelings of abandonment, stigma, and loss. Children of incarcerated mothers face unique challenges that can lead to long-lasting psychological effects, including anxiety, depression and social isolation. Imagine the confusion and heartache of a child who must navigate the world without their mother, often feeling ashamed or misunderstood by peers. The stigma associated with having an incarcerated parent can lead to bullying and social exclusion, compounding their trauma. These children are not just statistics; they are our future, deserving of compassion and support. Let's advocate for understanding and resources that can help these children heal and thrive. Together, we can break the cycle of trauma and ensure every child has the opportunity to grow up in a loving environment, free from the shadows of Incarceration. Let's raise our voices for those who cannot speak for themselves. #endthestigma #supportchildren #maternalincarceration #leavingnoonebehind #CommunityEngagement

What does Freedom really mean, after years of incarceration? Some might think it's just walking out of a prison gate. But when I was released, I realized that another battle was just beginning.  For me, the only help or guidance I was given was money to purchase a bus ticket and my bag of belongings (Just paperwork and a few letters that I kept). No job lined up. No real money to speak of and no roadmap for how to rebuild. You’re expected to “just figure it out.” Sounds impossible, right? But that’s what thousands of men and women face every day when they re-enter society. I faced those same obstacles, job rejections, stigma, isolation. But I knew the most important piece of information; I was never going back. I found a way forward. Not because it was easy, but because I refused to give up. This isn’t just my story. It’s the story of countless others who are fighting for their second chance. We need to do better. We need to build bridges for those coming home, not walls. Here’s my question to you: What can we, as a community, as employers, as humans, do to make re-entry more than just survival? How do we make it about thriving?  If you’ve ever faced a second chance, given one, or believe in them, let's talk. Share your thoughts. Our insights could change someone’s life.  #resilience #mindsetmatters #justicereform #breakingbarriers #pathtosuccess #careerafterincarceration #buildingfutures

Join us on Friday, January 24, for Creating a Culture of Child Safety - an impactful event designed for early childhood educators, parents, social workers, teachers, grandparents, and anyone working with children. What you'll learn: ✅ Why teaching sexual health education early is crucial ✅ How schools can prioritize sexual abuse prevention ✅ Myths, statistics, and realities of sexual abuse (yes, it’s emotional—bring tissues) ✅ Stages of grooming, predator profiles, and signs of abuse ✅ Strategies for prevention and creating accountability ...and much more! Let’s work together to build a future where every child feels safe, seen, and supported. Reserve your spot now: https://lnkd.in/gqDRXN7s #ChildSafety #SexualAbusePrevention #ProtectOurChildren #EarlyChildhoodEducation #ParentingSupport #SocialWorkers #SafeKids #PreventAbuse #EducationMatters #ChildAdvocacy #KerriIsham #powerupeducation

Did you know that recovery homes for trafficked survivors, regardless of their age, often require a prolonged period of support and healing? National Studies have shown that 2-3 years in a residential program is recommended to allow sufficient time for mind, body, soul, and spirit recovery and reintegration. The recovery process for survivors of sex trafficking involves three stages. It generally takes place over two to three years: 1) the crisis stage 2) the transition stage and 3) the reintegration and inclusion stage Offering long-term case management and support to help survivors reintegrate into society successfully. Community Integration: Assisting survivors in establishing a sense of normalcy and community, including finding stable housing, reliable transportation, and employment. Empowerment and Advocacy: Encouraging survivors to become advocates for themselves and others, promoting empowerment and self-sufficiency. These stages are crucial in ensuring that survivors receive the comprehensive support they need to heal and rebuild their lives. You can help IF by giving here for our reintegration and aftercare program. https://lnkd.in/gApdykVT Or order off of our @Amazon wish list, https://a.co/4ilebtr Source: Nexus Institute #endsextrafficking #stophumantrafficking #endhumantrafficking #HealASoul #prevention #stopchildsextrafficking #helpachild #ProtectChildren #children #EndHumanTrafficking #aftercare #reintegration