Here’s what the prisoner-playwrights say about the Voices Inside program:
“The program voices inside has helped me discover my passion for writing. It also helped with my self-confidence. This program needs to continue.”
— Andrew H.
““Voices Inside” program has helped me develop my creative talents as well as afford me the opportunity to work with professionals to develop real world skills to pursue careers in the performing or language arts. It’s been transformational in my life and my recovery.”
— Anonymous
“This program offers one of the few bright spots in an otherwise bleak environment. It encourages and inspires people in creative ways. The people I’ve had encourage me to pursue my dreams of being a creative writer. ”
— David M.
“Humans will always find away to express themselves. Whether it be good or bad, the expression of oneself it always evident. Now, a person can choose to be around positive influences or negative ones. Whichever they choose directly correlates to how their inner voice comes out. In prison there are so many bad forms of expression: gambling, drinking, gang life, extortion, drugs, the list can go on forever. But the Voices Inside program offers a way to combat the negative. It brings light into the dark, shrouded place we find ourselves in. Instead of continuing down the dark road so many of us have found ourselves on, it offers another option, a road less traveled so to speak. It gives us, as inmates, the tools and resources needed to express ourselves positively, keeping us from the bad in here. It changed my trajectory from one that led to more self destruction to one that leads to recovery. I have a positive outlook on life now. It is all thanks to the volunteers and people who make the Voices Inside program possible. ”
— Clint M.
“Voices Inside is incredibly important to me. I look forward to every session. It is helping me not only to develop my skills as a writer and creative individual, but also to collaborate, to have a voice, and to create works that have a positive impact. It is transformative for myself, others in the group, the prison, and even to the outside world. Please keep this program funded. It is extremely valuable and unique. Thank you. ”
— David F.
“How does one adequately ever thank another human being for basically making you whole again, and by extension, giving your life back to you?”
— Rickie
“Before this program, I was more likely to argue and engage in nonproductive behavior that quite possibly could have led to some very negative outcomes. Through this class, and its teachings, I have learned not only how to express myself, but also how to communicate my thoughts and ambitions well enough to other people, to the point where I no longer have to rely on anger and frustration.”
— Derek
“So thank you, for giving me something I didn’t even know I needed. This experience will forever be a part of my life.”
— Stubby
“This opportunity encourages us to learn about subjects that can benefit us not only while we are incarcerated, but when we rejoin society. Many of us only have what we have learned prior to prison, or in prison. So any opportunity to learn and grow is tremendously beneficial and appreciated!”
— Denny
“After just two classes I have been really inspired to follow my dream of becoming a writer.”
— Jack