"IPMW gave me a connection |
BACKGROUND
Women are the fastest-growing segment of the prison population. Over 95% of those currently incarcerated will be released one day. They have paid their debt to society and can become successful, productive citizens, but far too often they face significant barriers to obtaining jobs, housing and social services. As a result, almost 30% of them return to prison within three years; even more return over time. At Interfaith Prison Ministry for Women (IPMW), we believe that systemic problems require holistic solutions. We strive to interrupt cycles of poverty, addiction, and violence by resourcing women mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and physically both before and after release. We are unique in our integration of evidence-based practices within the domain of prison ministry. For 39 years, IPMW has helped thousands of women realize their own dignity and worth. We have watched proudly as that realization becomes a base from which to heal from past traumas, succeed in the work force, and mend their families and relationships through IPMW’s programming, staff and volunteer support, and networks. PROGRAMS We meet women's spiritual and religious needs and provide trauma-informed training and care as well as opportunities for leadership and creative expression through chaplaincy programs and services at the North Carolina Correctional Institution for Women (NCCIW) primarily at the minimum-security Canary Unit. Our transitional education and services provides evidence-based life skills, job skills, emotional literacy training inside the prison walls and outside in the community while women are still incarcerated and readying themselves for release. Through the third arm of our offerings - reentry support - we offer a helping hand to women as they work to secure their post-release needs, including jobs, housing, transportation, human services and reunification with children, in partnership with faith-based groups, other nonprofit service providers and area businesses. We also raise awareness about issues of incarceration and the barriers that people face upon release through community engagement, as presentations, trainings and reentry simulations help the community at large prepare itself for its vital role in the reentry landscape. Please click here for more information about our history. and read more about the organization's work in our 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 annual reports. Formerly incarcerated individuals have paid their debt to society; and with non-judgmental love and support, they can be successful, productive citizens for the benefit of themselves and their families, and our shared communities and economies. Please consider volunteering or partnering with IPMW to walk alongside women as they ready themselves for a successful transition into the community upon their release from prison. |