Bridging Communities Inside and Out, a tagline found on the webpage for RISE Reentry Program explains in a phrase the short version of what they do. The long version of the mission is complex, yet simple–to break the cycle of incarceration and provide reentry support to help people build a new life after experiencing a prison sentence for people across the state of Nebraska. A recent visit to sit in and observe a single session of the Leadership Academy demonstrates the passion of the Executive Director, Jeremy Bouman for serving this population of individuals and is just one example of support in the process of building a new life after being system-impacted.
The Leadership Academy, is a 12-week staff leadership training program. Led by Bouman, he says he had “dreamed of connecting the training sessions with 1:1 professional coaching to integrate what team members were learning…I was connected with Sue by the Omaha IVC Director and she is the perfect match for what I was seeking. Sue’s coaching experience and expertise are a gift to our team members.” Topics presented in the session are much like a graduate study in leadership so those around the table are invited to explore possible ways to evolve into the best version of themselves as leaders. Jeremy shares “RISE and IVC both value the dignity and equality of all people, including our incarcerated brothers and sisters and system-impacted people in our community. We also both search for the magis, or greater service, to those in need. This ‘holy boldness’ drives us to bring God’s love and light to people in prison struggling with desperation and hopelessness and let them know the community values them and is there for them when they come home.”
Sue Twit, is a new IVC (Ignatian Volunteer Corps) service corps member who experienced a “life shift” after losing her home in the Bennigton tornado last spring. “After our home was destroyed, we moved to an apartment downtown. With a smaller living space and no flower garden to care for, I had time to spare. Even before the tornado, I was looking for a “good fit in an opportunity to volunteer, so when I noticed IVC in the parish bulletin and met with the director, I was impressed by what I heard and decided to apply.”
Sue’s role is providing coaching support to the program designed by Jeremy. “I participate in the class with them, and they are truly impressive people,” says Sue, “then I coach them individually following the group session.” Sue adds,” Working for a more just society is where I see the missions aligning. IVC has given me the opportunity to contribute at RISE by using my 25+ years of consulting and leadership coaching experience to assist these leaders in the critically important work they do.”