My Prison Experience Helps Me Help Others

Dear Cascade Patch:

A poor decision in my life once caused me to be incarcerated in the Fulton County Jail, at 901 Rice St., for nine months and then transferred to the Jackson State Prison where I became the barber to death row inmates. I learned a lot a saw quite a bit of hopelessness, too.

Coming out of this experience, I decided to give something back and make something positive happen out of all the negative situations I experienced.

I now have a message to share to my brothers: You do not have to accept the label placed on you by society and you can overcome any obstacle.

I have spoken to the dorm on the 6th floor and stood outside of the same cell where I once was.

The response from the inmates has been overwhelming and I know they want to change.

They also need to see change.

They would like the social service organizations to meet them at the gate and not wait until they are released. They need input that has impacts on their lives.

This is where where Noah's Ark, Inc. comes in.

We seek to raise awareness for prison reform and youth mentorship and community involvement.

To bring attention to this, I and many great friends, real advocates of prison reform, are walking 139 miles next week, starting Mon., June 29, from the Rice Street Jail to the Johnson State Prison.

At the end of the walk he I will speak outside the prison where I was once was held.

We invite you to join us or support our cause. To learn more about "Walk for Change," please go to www.noahsarkatl.com or call me directly at 404-901-7385.

— Rick Evans, Noah's Ark, Atlanta/Dunwoody