When I was incarcerated, I got involved with faith-based programs in prison. I started facilitating classes and at the same time was researching and studying behavioral psychology and philosophy. I was in a unique situation because I had questions and the answers were right in front of me. Through the grace of God, I was able to focus and develop a mindset that helped me to help others that were in the same situation I was. I observed and picked up on key insights that would help me reintegrate back into society. 

      At CARE we are in a unique situation because we are given the necessities like spiritual fellowship, community, shelter, food, water, transportation, and connection. It is those necessities that if used correctly can assist us in building back our lives and becoming stable citizens. When the staff here at CARE recognize achievement, we focus on that and encourage it. We want others to know how it was accomplished and what steps were taken to ensure success. This way a sort of "How-to" map can be developed by everyone who views these blog posts -from the classification officers at FLDOC looking to get some info for an inmate about to be released to those who are anywhere in the world and need to know what decisions they must make when getting out.  This month we focus on Richard Dwayne Lynch who has been with us since March 2021. I interviewed Richard for this post and would like to share his wisdom and insight. It is my hope that these posts find those in need of this wisdom and with Gods help make it through whatever tough obstacles they may face and know that someone does CARE.

Kerry: What steps did you take, once you were released, to get where you are today?

so I decided to put a little bit of my canteen money that my family sent each month while I was in prison aside to save for release. This way I could open up a bank account. Once released it was my hope to acquire a job within 3 - 6 months. I found that staying at CARE your mind is not clouded with stress and worry about probation stipulations, transportation, and shelter so you can focus on rebuilding. I found a job in 3 weeks. Normally CARE wants you to take a break for the first 30 days but they made an exception in my case because jobs are a next step, and its super tough for felons. Once I received my checks from work, I saved money and invested in things like a secured credit card and loan this way I could rebuild my credit. Once I had enough money saved, I purchased a used vehicle with high mileage for around 2300 cash. 

Kerry: So, you went from release to bank account, job, credit rebuild, and car paid for with cash in 2 1/2 months after release. That is Fantastic! What's your long-term goals?

Richard: I would like to get a truck so I can make money with it because I would like to start a small pressure washing and lawncare business. I am in the right geographical area for those services, so it complements my situation. I would also like to get a house and land, even if it’s something simple as a trailer it’s a start and that's ok with me.

Kerry: What advice would you give others who find themselves being released from prison or trying to rebuild their lives?

Richard: Do the right thing! You must have a level head and the right mindset. The only way to truly acquire that is to make a conscious decision to follow the Lord Jesus Christ. Let Him take control. Your willpower must be set in the Lord. It is Him that will carry you through. Get educated, learn what steps you need to take to be in compliance with probation and parole if you have it. Follow the rules - No drugs, No alcohol, No tobacco...No Vices....Just JESUS:)

CARE would like to welcome our new General Manager Kerry Creech and our new Assistant Manager Walter Harris to the staff!  Bob, Mary and Lee welcomes them with open arms and we look forward to seeing them take the skills, wisdom, and knowledge God has given them to help our participants succeed in life.