Adam Finds Health and Hope Inside a U.S. Penitentiary
Health & Hope Inside Prison
Shortly after my sentencing hearing I was designated to United States Penitentiary Allenwood and arrived on this yard in May 2001. Since that time this place has changed dramatically but so have I. My initial days and months here were spent 'lost in the sauce' (drinking heavily) and inevitably, this got me into some trouble. However, it wasn't just the drinking but also smoking 2 packs of non-filtered cigarettes each day, combined with a severe lack of sleep that contributed to the very unhealthy lifestyle decisions which kept me from fully adjusting to my new environment...and 'adjusting' is the best you can ever hope for because life inside these walls never becomes 'comfortable.’
Almost one full year after my arrival I finally got hooked up with a guy who was serious about his workouts AND willing to work with me. He was extremely knowledgeable and dedicated. Under his guidance I began the very slow and gradual transformation that would forever change the course of my life. We spent most of everyday together for the next 2 years and I made great progress under his guidance but my 'bad habits' continued to stunt my development. I was growing physically but mentally I was still quite ignorant and immature.
Then one day I received some news that hit me like a bolt of lightening. My workout partner, who had by now become my closest friend on the inside, was exposed as a jailhouse informant...he was a 'snitch'. There was indisputable evidence against him, some of which resulted from him attempting to set me up, and he instinctively ran off before anyone was able to confront him. His hasty departure left me alone to pick up the pieces and to try and explain how he could have done what he had for so long. It was an extremely uncomfortable position to be in but that experience was an omega point for me. I was forced to finally grow and take responsibility not just for my own actions but for those who were close to me as well....We are the reflections of those closest to us...we ALL reflect each other.
Instead of growing cynical from yet another betrayal, I chose instead to pour all of my energy and emotion into my workouts. It wasn't long before people noticed my renewed devotion to fitness and guys began lining up to both ask for my advice and/or to join in my workouts. This positive reinforcement was the motivation that I needed to clean up the rest of my life. I quit drinking, stopped smoking, and began eating a much more healthy and balanced diet. All of those lifestyle changes resulted in a much more healthy, happy, and optimistic ME...and it occurred at just the right time.
In 2004 I began teaching fitness classes as a volunteer for the Recreation Department here at USP Allenwood I continued to work with small groups and individuals on the side but my actual volunteer title became that of a group Fitness Instructor. As an instructor/teacher I have always felt compelled to 'lead by my own example' and that kept me highly motivated to stay ahead of the pack. There is a tremendous amount of competition in here and I've tried to utilize it both to my own personal advantage but also to the benefit of everyone in each of my classes. I was very fortunate to get a job doing something that I wake up and look forward to each day.
Almost one full year after my arrival I finally got hooked up with a guy who was serious about his workouts AND willing to work with me. He was extremely knowledgeable and dedicated. Under his guidance I began the very slow and gradual transformation that would forever change the course of my life. We spent most of everyday together for the next 2 years and I made great progress under his guidance but my 'bad habits' continued to stunt my development. I was growing physically but mentally I was still quite ignorant and immature.
Then one day I received some news that hit me like a bolt of lightening. My workout partner, who had by now become my closest friend on the inside, was exposed as a jailhouse informant...he was a 'snitch'. There was indisputable evidence against him, some of which resulted from him attempting to set me up, and he instinctively ran off before anyone was able to confront him. His hasty departure left me alone to pick up the pieces and to try and explain how he could have done what he had for so long. It was an extremely uncomfortable position to be in but that experience was an omega point for me. I was forced to finally grow and take responsibility not just for my own actions but for those who were close to me as well....We are the reflections of those closest to us...we ALL reflect each other.
Instead of growing cynical from yet another betrayal, I chose instead to pour all of my energy and emotion into my workouts. It wasn't long before people noticed my renewed devotion to fitness and guys began lining up to both ask for my advice and/or to join in my workouts. This positive reinforcement was the motivation that I needed to clean up the rest of my life. I quit drinking, stopped smoking, and began eating a much more healthy and balanced diet. All of those lifestyle changes resulted in a much more healthy, happy, and optimistic ME...and it occurred at just the right time.
In 2004 I began teaching fitness classes as a volunteer for the Recreation Department here at USP Allenwood I continued to work with small groups and individuals on the side but my actual volunteer title became that of a group Fitness Instructor. As an instructor/teacher I have always felt compelled to 'lead by my own example' and that kept me highly motivated to stay ahead of the pack. There is a tremendous amount of competition in here and I've tried to utilize it both to my own personal advantage but also to the benefit of everyone in each of my classes. I was very fortunate to get a job doing something that I wake up and look forward to each day.
USP Allenwood
Later that same year my final appeal to The United States Supreme Court was denied and I found myself at a pivotal point in my life. This appeal effectively closed the door to the courts on me once and for all.Again, it would have been easy for me to simply give up hope and revert back to my old bad habits but I was feeling way too good about myself and my life. Of course I was initially angry about the Court's decision and even 'freaked out' (alone in my cell) for about an hour...but after I let it all out and took a long, deep breath I realized that I felt a tremendous 'RELIEF'. It felt like I'd just shrugged off a 120 pound back pack that I'd been lugging around for way too long...and I was left with hope...lots and lots of Hope. Deep down I knew that I'd done everything within my power to prevail on all of my appeals so there was no room left for any feelings of regret...I'd done my part. I also realized that I had much to be grateful for despite my physical confinement. For the very first time in my adult life I had no external concerns and could focus all of my attention INWARD...it was an integral step in my personal development.
Introspection can be a very frightening journey because all that you discover along the way, both the good and the bad, is a part of you. Most people rarely, if ever, get the opportunity to focus all of their attention upon themselves. It can become an extremely humbling experience once you are forced to confront and admit your more serious mistakes- even if that admission is only made in self-acknowledgement.Most often that type of knowledge carries with it (at least for a little while) a heavy burden of guilt and remorse. Finding a way to make peace first with yourself and then with those you've harmed is no simple task that can be undertaken lightly. I've spent many years now attempting to make amends for my past and have only recently come to the harsh realization that forgiveness cannot always be given or even earned. Sometimes you have to simply learn from those mistakes and move forward or risk drowning in your own guilt and remorse.
Since 2004 I've managed to maintain an optimistic outlook on life while working to help others to adopt healthier lifestyle habits. Throughout that time I've designed and instructed a wide variety of fitness programs for men of all ages, shapes, and sizes. Those programs include: Stability Ball Training, Plyo-Medicine Ball Training, Core And Abs Class, Jump Rope And Calisthenics Class, Spinning Class (Indoor Sprint Cycling), F.A.S.T. Class (Flexibility, Agility and Stability Training), and 50 And Over Class (keeping all those over the age of 49 physically fit). Each of my classes runs for a 'quarter', or approximately 90 days. I alter the physical curriculum each quarter so that all of the classes remain novel and interesting...as much to keep me motivated as it is to keep my students constantly 'inspired'. I genuinely love what I do and could not imagine myself doing anything else. My 'work' is also my passion and I get to share that with nearly every person I meet.
In order to stay well informed on the latest scientific findings related to health and fitness I'm constantly reading industry literature. Each month I receive and read numerous periodicals on exercise, rehabilitation, nutrition, and behavioral sciences. I not only enjoy learning more about those topics but it's of even greater interest because I have a forum for the practical application of that acquired knowledge. Over the years I've compiled a small library of related books ranging in topics from physical anatomy, to holistic healing, to meditation and visualization.My goal is to learn something new and positive each day and to then pass that knowledge onto someone else so that they can share its benefit.
For many years now meditation has been an integral part of my daily routine. In addition to the meditation I often incorporate various breathing techniques, such as Chi Kung, which help to stimulate the body much in the same manner that meditation stimulates the mind. These practices allow me to find harmony and balance in all aspects of my life. In an attempt to further my meditative practice I began a 12 year self-study guided meditation course this past year. The 'lessons' therein have helped to keep me focused on the things that matter the most in my life while encouraging me to continue growing personally. Many of the lessons have not only been influential in my own life but they've also helped to positively influence many of the people around me.
Recently I completed a couple of voluntary courses that were aimed at workplace safety. I believed that both of them would be beneficial for both myself as well as the participants in all of my classes. The first one was the American Red Cross' CPR training certification course and I believed that I had a responsibility (as a class instructor) to update my previous certification. It was actually quite informative and filled with useful tips and reminders. The other course I learned a lot from was OSHA's Occupational Safety and Health Training Course'. Fortunately, no situations have ever arisen where I needed to utilize the knowledge I acquired from that course and I hope they never do. I did appreciate all that I learned and was happy to have had the opportunity to take that course. Many employers and Unions require their workers to take this OSHA course so I know that it has great value.
Over the years I've developed a number of 'hobbies' that I never even would have considered prior to my incarceration. Some of those hobbies are directly related to my passion for health and fitness while the others are quite diverse. These hobbies tend to occupy much of my 'personal time' although I often wish that I could devote much more time to EACH of them. As far as relating to health and fitness I greatly enjoy designing obstacle courses and structures, writing detailed exercise and diet programs for mass consumption, envisioning/inventing new exercises or new applications for existing equipment, and creating innovative new business models. I'm ALWAYS looking for new ways to apply all the related knowledge I have stored in my brain. Unfortunately, many of my ideas are still confined to paper until I am able to find a means to make them a reality. One of the things I AM able to experiment with are the new exercises that I occasionally envision. However, some of the things that I see in my mind don't work out in the real world where the pesky laws of gravity and physics tend to get in the way...so there have admittedly been a few minor mishaps and injuries along the way -but thankfully no broken bones or anything more serious!
A couple of years ago I was suddenly inspired (I don't recall by whom or what exactly) to explore my 'artistic side' by learning to play the guitar. Since I lack no confidence in my physical abilities I thought I could easily pick it up in no time. There was only one small problem that first needed to be overcome...the guitar program had been shut down for more than two years and no one was interested in helping me to resurrect it…until I was able to enlist the help of our resident 'savant' Salvatore Brunetti. Sal is an extraordinary classically trained at the esteemed Curtis Conservatory musician and painter whom agreed to teach a Music Theory and Composition Class in order to get the guitar program re-started. In the past 2 years he has taught me not only how to play the guitar but how to compose my own songs and music. Now if I could only find (make) more time to devote to my physical daily practice I could better utilize all that I've learned from him.
I discovered yet another hobby while we we're locked in our cells for about a month this past summer...drawing. I've had this aversion to drawing since I was in grade school and never really gave myself a chance to fully explore my artistic abilities...I figured that I might as well give it a shot. Since I'm really into anatomy it seemed logical for me to begin by drawing the human body...and I started with my own foot. My very first sketch came out better than I ever would have expected and inspired me to keep drawing and testing my abilities. I've drawn quite a few (very basic) pictures since then and it's clear I'm no Picasso in hiding, but like with anything else in life the more you practice the better you become. I really haven't devoted much time to this 'practice' but it's something I would like to further explore in the future when my schedule is a bit more accommodating. Sometimes I actually find myself wishing for a 'lock-down' so that I can stay in my cell for a few days so that I can just draw and play my guitar...I'm sure that sounds a little crazy but it's true.
In contrast to my artistic hobbies I've also come to enjoy a variety of games that challenge my more analytical side. I enjoy Suduko, Kakuro, and Logic puzzles as well as game shows such as 'Jeopardy' and 'Cash Cab'. These puzzles and games help keep my mind sharp, test my knowledge, and often teach me something new. I believe it's important to find a balance between your artistic and analytical modes of thought and that's what I've attempted to do during these last few years.
I decided long ago that I was going to use my time in here to work on becoming a better man. My intention has always been to try and pursue any activity that might improve my personal life and/or allow me to positively affect the lives of those around me. There's never been any other 'incentive' for me to accomplish the things I have in here aside from the fact that they make me feel good. I've definitely chosen to tread the proverbial 'road less traveled' during my time behind the wall.
Most guys in here spend their time either learning how to become better criminals or chasing after 'bad habits'. It's so easy to get caught up in the negative flow of things in here because there are so few people are trying to do something positive. By choosing to follow the more positive approach to this life I've shown many of the men around me that they do in fact have 'alternatives'. I could have spent my days at the card table, on the basketball court, or in front of the television but then I wouldn't be the man that I am today. What once seemed a lonely road has become a little more well traveled since I ventured down this way and I'm happy to have some company. 'They never said it would be easy, they just said it would be worth it.'
Introspection can be a very frightening journey because all that you discover along the way, both the good and the bad, is a part of you. Most people rarely, if ever, get the opportunity to focus all of their attention upon themselves. It can become an extremely humbling experience once you are forced to confront and admit your more serious mistakes- even if that admission is only made in self-acknowledgement.Most often that type of knowledge carries with it (at least for a little while) a heavy burden of guilt and remorse. Finding a way to make peace first with yourself and then with those you've harmed is no simple task that can be undertaken lightly. I've spent many years now attempting to make amends for my past and have only recently come to the harsh realization that forgiveness cannot always be given or even earned. Sometimes you have to simply learn from those mistakes and move forward or risk drowning in your own guilt and remorse.
Since 2004 I've managed to maintain an optimistic outlook on life while working to help others to adopt healthier lifestyle habits. Throughout that time I've designed and instructed a wide variety of fitness programs for men of all ages, shapes, and sizes. Those programs include: Stability Ball Training, Plyo-Medicine Ball Training, Core And Abs Class, Jump Rope And Calisthenics Class, Spinning Class (Indoor Sprint Cycling), F.A.S.T. Class (Flexibility, Agility and Stability Training), and 50 And Over Class (keeping all those over the age of 49 physically fit). Each of my classes runs for a 'quarter', or approximately 90 days. I alter the physical curriculum each quarter so that all of the classes remain novel and interesting...as much to keep me motivated as it is to keep my students constantly 'inspired'. I genuinely love what I do and could not imagine myself doing anything else. My 'work' is also my passion and I get to share that with nearly every person I meet.
In order to stay well informed on the latest scientific findings related to health and fitness I'm constantly reading industry literature. Each month I receive and read numerous periodicals on exercise, rehabilitation, nutrition, and behavioral sciences. I not only enjoy learning more about those topics but it's of even greater interest because I have a forum for the practical application of that acquired knowledge. Over the years I've compiled a small library of related books ranging in topics from physical anatomy, to holistic healing, to meditation and visualization.My goal is to learn something new and positive each day and to then pass that knowledge onto someone else so that they can share its benefit.
For many years now meditation has been an integral part of my daily routine. In addition to the meditation I often incorporate various breathing techniques, such as Chi Kung, which help to stimulate the body much in the same manner that meditation stimulates the mind. These practices allow me to find harmony and balance in all aspects of my life. In an attempt to further my meditative practice I began a 12 year self-study guided meditation course this past year. The 'lessons' therein have helped to keep me focused on the things that matter the most in my life while encouraging me to continue growing personally. Many of the lessons have not only been influential in my own life but they've also helped to positively influence many of the people around me.
Recently I completed a couple of voluntary courses that were aimed at workplace safety. I believed that both of them would be beneficial for both myself as well as the participants in all of my classes. The first one was the American Red Cross' CPR training certification course and I believed that I had a responsibility (as a class instructor) to update my previous certification. It was actually quite informative and filled with useful tips and reminders. The other course I learned a lot from was OSHA's Occupational Safety and Health Training Course'. Fortunately, no situations have ever arisen where I needed to utilize the knowledge I acquired from that course and I hope they never do. I did appreciate all that I learned and was happy to have had the opportunity to take that course. Many employers and Unions require their workers to take this OSHA course so I know that it has great value.
Over the years I've developed a number of 'hobbies' that I never even would have considered prior to my incarceration. Some of those hobbies are directly related to my passion for health and fitness while the others are quite diverse. These hobbies tend to occupy much of my 'personal time' although I often wish that I could devote much more time to EACH of them. As far as relating to health and fitness I greatly enjoy designing obstacle courses and structures, writing detailed exercise and diet programs for mass consumption, envisioning/inventing new exercises or new applications for existing equipment, and creating innovative new business models. I'm ALWAYS looking for new ways to apply all the related knowledge I have stored in my brain. Unfortunately, many of my ideas are still confined to paper until I am able to find a means to make them a reality. One of the things I AM able to experiment with are the new exercises that I occasionally envision. However, some of the things that I see in my mind don't work out in the real world where the pesky laws of gravity and physics tend to get in the way...so there have admittedly been a few minor mishaps and injuries along the way -but thankfully no broken bones or anything more serious!
A couple of years ago I was suddenly inspired (I don't recall by whom or what exactly) to explore my 'artistic side' by learning to play the guitar. Since I lack no confidence in my physical abilities I thought I could easily pick it up in no time. There was only one small problem that first needed to be overcome...the guitar program had been shut down for more than two years and no one was interested in helping me to resurrect it…until I was able to enlist the help of our resident 'savant' Salvatore Brunetti. Sal is an extraordinary classically trained at the esteemed Curtis Conservatory musician and painter whom agreed to teach a Music Theory and Composition Class in order to get the guitar program re-started. In the past 2 years he has taught me not only how to play the guitar but how to compose my own songs and music. Now if I could only find (make) more time to devote to my physical daily practice I could better utilize all that I've learned from him.
I discovered yet another hobby while we we're locked in our cells for about a month this past summer...drawing. I've had this aversion to drawing since I was in grade school and never really gave myself a chance to fully explore my artistic abilities...I figured that I might as well give it a shot. Since I'm really into anatomy it seemed logical for me to begin by drawing the human body...and I started with my own foot. My very first sketch came out better than I ever would have expected and inspired me to keep drawing and testing my abilities. I've drawn quite a few (very basic) pictures since then and it's clear I'm no Picasso in hiding, but like with anything else in life the more you practice the better you become. I really haven't devoted much time to this 'practice' but it's something I would like to further explore in the future when my schedule is a bit more accommodating. Sometimes I actually find myself wishing for a 'lock-down' so that I can stay in my cell for a few days so that I can just draw and play my guitar...I'm sure that sounds a little crazy but it's true.
In contrast to my artistic hobbies I've also come to enjoy a variety of games that challenge my more analytical side. I enjoy Suduko, Kakuro, and Logic puzzles as well as game shows such as 'Jeopardy' and 'Cash Cab'. These puzzles and games help keep my mind sharp, test my knowledge, and often teach me something new. I believe it's important to find a balance between your artistic and analytical modes of thought and that's what I've attempted to do during these last few years.
I decided long ago that I was going to use my time in here to work on becoming a better man. My intention has always been to try and pursue any activity that might improve my personal life and/or allow me to positively affect the lives of those around me. There's never been any other 'incentive' for me to accomplish the things I have in here aside from the fact that they make me feel good. I've definitely chosen to tread the proverbial 'road less traveled' during my time behind the wall.
Most guys in here spend their time either learning how to become better criminals or chasing after 'bad habits'. It's so easy to get caught up in the negative flow of things in here because there are so few people are trying to do something positive. By choosing to follow the more positive approach to this life I've shown many of the men around me that they do in fact have 'alternatives'. I could have spent my days at the card table, on the basketball court, or in front of the television but then I wouldn't be the man that I am today. What once seemed a lonely road has become a little more well traveled since I ventured down this way and I'm happy to have some company. 'They never said it would be easy, they just said it would be worth it.'
Move to McKean
Back in April 2010 I finally made it out from behind the wall. After nearly a decade at USP Allenwood I was granted a "public safety waiver" and re-designated to a medium security facility. That was a "big deal" because the Bureau Of Prisons NEVER had to reduce my custody level due to the length of my sentence. Only a few "lifers" including myself were lucky enough to make it out of there at that time. Since then not a single day has gone by without me pausing at some point to briefly reflect upon my good fortune. Life is definitely much better these days.
My new home, F.C.I. McKean, is located up in the northwestern corner of Pennsylvania on the edge of the Allegheny National Forest. I've been out here for well over a year now and it's taken me most of that time to fully acclimate to my new environment. Thankfully I had a very good friend already here to help me make the transition. Even though this wasn't the destination at the top of my list it's probably the best place that they could have sent me. I'm genuinely happy here. The easiest way for me to describe this place is simply to say that it's far "better" than Allenwood in almost every way.
Shortly after I arrived here at McKean I began training a small group of 8-10 men out on the yard each afternoon. This was neither part of a class for the Rec. Dept. nor part of my job but instead something I wanted to do primarily for myself and a few other guys. These daily sessions were extremely intense and allowed everyone to achieve tremendous results in a relatively brief amount of time. One of my trainees was so impressed by what he witnessed that he urged me to post my training philosophy and workouts on the internet. Through that effort www.prisonbodyfitness.com was born and it is now home to the wealth of fitness related knowledge that I've acquired over the years. My goal was/is to make the site a valuable resource to all fitness aficionados, especially those which have trained with me and been released. Undoubtedly, it will continue to grow and evolve, as I do, and hopefully become a positive influence to many.
Nearly every day someone approaches me with a question related to health and fitness. Most often, the inquiry involves "losing weight" and I try to give them the most basic advice possible. Unfortunately I don't have the time to work with each and every person on an individual basis so I decided to design and instruct a H.I.I.T. (High Intensity Interval Training) Class through the Rec. Dept. My goal is to teach all of the participants how to utilize frequent H.I.I.T. sessions in conjunction with proper daily nutrition to achieve their fat loss goals. I'm excited to see how quickly H.I.I.T. spreads from my class to the rest of the population as the participants begin to show results.
There is another class that I've been attempting to coordinate since my arrival here which may also soon commence. My goal was to create a self study music program that allowed each of the participants to purchase their very own acoustic guitar. Each individual would then be able to study and practice right inside their own cell. Initially this idea was met with some resistance but after many months of lobbying the Administration my persistence paid off. They recently "approved" my program proposal so soon I should be able to purchase my own guitar. I'm ecstatic to have the opportunity to continue my music studies and guitar practice while I'm here at McKean.
For a number of years my life has continued to steadily improve. Moving to McKean was yet another positive step forward and I believe that it was the best thing that could have happened to me under these circumstances. Looking back I can now see how far I've come and it fills me with even greater hope and optimism than I've ever known before. I'm genuinely happy to be here and feel like I'm in an excellent position to take advantage of whatever opportunities may arise for me in the future. "Dum spiro, spero".
My new home, F.C.I. McKean, is located up in the northwestern corner of Pennsylvania on the edge of the Allegheny National Forest. I've been out here for well over a year now and it's taken me most of that time to fully acclimate to my new environment. Thankfully I had a very good friend already here to help me make the transition. Even though this wasn't the destination at the top of my list it's probably the best place that they could have sent me. I'm genuinely happy here. The easiest way for me to describe this place is simply to say that it's far "better" than Allenwood in almost every way.
Shortly after I arrived here at McKean I began training a small group of 8-10 men out on the yard each afternoon. This was neither part of a class for the Rec. Dept. nor part of my job but instead something I wanted to do primarily for myself and a few other guys. These daily sessions were extremely intense and allowed everyone to achieve tremendous results in a relatively brief amount of time. One of my trainees was so impressed by what he witnessed that he urged me to post my training philosophy and workouts on the internet. Through that effort www.prisonbodyfitness.com was born and it is now home to the wealth of fitness related knowledge that I've acquired over the years. My goal was/is to make the site a valuable resource to all fitness aficionados, especially those which have trained with me and been released. Undoubtedly, it will continue to grow and evolve, as I do, and hopefully become a positive influence to many.
Nearly every day someone approaches me with a question related to health and fitness. Most often, the inquiry involves "losing weight" and I try to give them the most basic advice possible. Unfortunately I don't have the time to work with each and every person on an individual basis so I decided to design and instruct a H.I.I.T. (High Intensity Interval Training) Class through the Rec. Dept. My goal is to teach all of the participants how to utilize frequent H.I.I.T. sessions in conjunction with proper daily nutrition to achieve their fat loss goals. I'm excited to see how quickly H.I.I.T. spreads from my class to the rest of the population as the participants begin to show results.
There is another class that I've been attempting to coordinate since my arrival here which may also soon commence. My goal was to create a self study music program that allowed each of the participants to purchase their very own acoustic guitar. Each individual would then be able to study and practice right inside their own cell. Initially this idea was met with some resistance but after many months of lobbying the Administration my persistence paid off. They recently "approved" my program proposal so soon I should be able to purchase my own guitar. I'm ecstatic to have the opportunity to continue my music studies and guitar practice while I'm here at McKean.
For a number of years my life has continued to steadily improve. Moving to McKean was yet another positive step forward and I believe that it was the best thing that could have happened to me under these circumstances. Looking back I can now see how far I've come and it fills me with even greater hope and optimism than I've ever known before. I'm genuinely happy to be here and feel like I'm in an excellent position to take advantage of whatever opportunities may arise for me in the future. "Dum spiro, spero".
UPDATE 1/12/13: Life Coaching, Mentoring & Much More
Today I sit here in awe of all that's transpired in such a relatively brief amount of time. Just three years ago, I was still sitting in a United States Penitentiary enveloped by perpetual chaos and violence. Most everyone there, including the men closest to me, thought I was (more than) a little crazy to have such big dreams and aspirations while living in such a place. However, my unwavering optimism finally paid off when I was awarded a transfer here to FCI McKean. Even though this was the last place on my list of desired destinations I'm grateful I landed here.
Thankfully I had an old friend waiting to welcome me when I arrived and he helped me make the transition. Since then, I've watched numerous other men arrive from USP's and fail to make the same transition. I know the time I've spent here has allowed me to take a much needed step back toward "normalcy" and all of my relationships have gained much greater depth and meaning as a result of this relaxed environment. It was more difficult to undo the negative conditioning/behaviors of higher security than I care to admit, but I did make it through.
Many years ago I discovered my passion for health and fitness and I've been incredibly fortunate to have so many opportunities to share that passion with the men around me. Over the past year I've taught H.I.I.T. classes, GetFitCamps (boot camps I designed) and Yoga classes to the men within this institution. (See these classes & much more at Prison Body Fitness) These classes have always made me a highly visible & well-respected figure within the prison community but it wasn't until this past year that I discovered how I could use that influence to impact an even larger percentage of the population.
About 6 months ago I approached one of the Assistant Wardens with a concern. During the course of our conversation I expressed that I had a number of ideas that I believed could benefit the entire population. He suggest that I submit those ideas to him on paper, and so I did. A few weeks later I was "invited" to attend a ReEntry Panel Meeting to discuss these ideas. Not knowing what to expect, I showed up at the appointed time & place with nothing but an open mind. What I witnessed during the next 90 minutes inspired me to shift my focus and reevaluate my priorities.
During that first ReEntry Panel Meeting I found myself seated between my fellow inmates and the prison's Executive staff. I had never heard of such an unusual forum and had I not witnessed it myself, I would not have believed it ever existed. We shared an exchange of ideas concerning a variety of ReEntry Program initiatives and discussed how we might all work together to make those programs more effective and accessible to the rest of the population. It was obvious, to me at least, that these efforts, if successful, would greatly benefit both inmates and administrators alike. At that point I needed no further convincing that this "ReEntry Movement" was something I needed to get involved with, despite the face that I am not personally scheduled to "ReEnter" society any time this century. Unfortunately, my distant released date has made many people (at least initially) suspicious of my motives, but I haven't allowed that negativity to deter any of my efforts.
Health and Fitness are still major priorities in my life but I've had to make some room at the top. During that first ReEntry Panel meeting I was challenged to create/establish a "Long Termer's Group" to address the specific needs of men, like myself, that are serving lengthy prison terms. What I did not realize at the time was how my agreement to do so would alter the way my fellow inmates and the administration view me. For the first time in my life, I willingly CHOSE to accept the responsibility of leadership, without feeling like I had no other choice. I sincerely believed that I could use my "gift" to benefit many of the men here...and I was right.
I requested and received a list of men who were all serving lengthy/life sentences and then personally invited most of them to attend an initial, unofficial meeting. Not everyone was interested in getting together but a core group of us formed and have continued to meet every Friday evening since on an unofficial basis. It quickly became apparent that we all shared similar altruistic intentions and saw within this group an opportunity to give something back. Even though the initial purpose of forming the group was to address OUR issues it simply evolved into a "think tank" that has remained focused on improving life for EVERYONE trapped within this environment. We decided to name this collection of like minded long-termers the HONOR Group, and in the months since our initial gathering we've made some tremendous progress.
One of the primary interests we initially discussed as the HONOR Group was developing an effective means of positively influencing the younger men who are just coming into the system. We all expressed a desire to create or participate in some type of mentoring program, so I made a request to one of the administrators for whatever mentoring program information they could find. Before long I had an abundance of info downloaded from the net that need to be sorted and studied before we could go any further.
There were a number of guys that helped me sift through the info and we concluded that there was a great deal of work to be done if we were going to create our own program. I think that realization intimidated most of the guys, but I simple viewed it as another challenge and opportunity. Over the following few months I worked diligently to craft a mentoring program that would best address the needs of young men not only here at FCI McKean but throughout the rest of the FBOP nationwide. What emerged from those efforts has become well known here at FCI McKean as the HOPE Program.
While I was meeting with the HONOR Group and in the process of developing the HOPE Program I was introduced to the concept of "Life Coaching". Intrigued and eager to learn more, I began inquiring about it and requesting info off the net. As fate would have it, the AW in charge of all programming here at McKean (including ReEntry) happens to be an extremely knowledgeable and experienced Life Coach herself. The very first time I spoke to her about coaching she invited me to participate in a small class she was preparing to teach on the subject. At that time I had absolutely No Interest in adding yet another "obligation" to my growing list of responsibilities. However, she was so enthusiastic that I could not bring myself to refuse her offer...and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I've ever made.
The first day that we met as a group to receive our Life Coaching textbooks I arrived early and was introduced to a few of the men I did not know. As we were talking, one of the men suggested that I would be a good candidate to fill a vacancy that had just been created in another program due to the unexpected transfer of one participant. Once our Life Coaching instructor, A.W. Folk, walked into the room it was suggested to her that I fill the recent opening in the Inside Out Program. She thought that was an excellent idea and immediately suggested it to the director of the program, who just happened to walk through the door at that very moment. I was little more than a spectator to the situation but it turned out to be the best decision I never got to make and I'm incredibly grateful for the faith they had in me.
Two days later I was standing outside of the visiting room with a group of men I hardly knew, waiting to be stripped search before admittance to class. The Inside Out Program already existed at numerous state prisons across the country but it had never been permitted inside a male federal facility. My class was the "pilot program" and they made it abundantly clear that we would be watched very carefully and our actions would likely determine the future of the program for the rest of the men throughout the FBOP.
My late arrival occurred in week 3 of the 13 week Criminal Justice Course discussing author Michele Alexander's controversial book titled "The New Jim Crow...Mass Incarceration in the Age of Color blindness". The course was taught by University of Pittsburgh Professor Tony Gaskew and attended by 15 of his U. Pitt "outside students" and 15 of us "inside students". Each week all 30 students were required to submit a "reflection paper" (read my reflection papers) concerning the required reading and/or previous class discussion and then also contribute to that weeks group discourse. The experience definitely increased my intellectual confidence and contributed to my further personal development. I know for certain, only because it has been mentioned many times since, that we (the Inside Students) far exceeded EVERYONE'S expectations and I'm extremely proud to have been a part of that class and program.
The last few weeks of the Inside Out Program were scheduled to include "group projects" but we had no idea what to expect. When the time arrived, Dr. Gaskew suggested a few different projects that each involved the ReEntry movement already taking place at McKean. Myself and another Inside Student came up with a rather ambitious and unique project unlike any other that had been suggested and then devised a plan to recruit certain Outside students into our new group. Thankfully, Dr. Gaskew gave us his approval and the RAISE Program was green lighted as an Inside Out group project. The acronym RAISE stands for ReEntry Apprenticeships Initiative for Skills Enhancement and the goal of our program is to ensure that every participant leaves prison with a trade and maintains employment upon release.
All RAISE participants would be required to work at a shop within the prison where they can acquire the instruction and experience needed for a Dept. Of Labor Apprenticeship Certification. After accumulating at least HALF of the total required Apprenticeship hours they will be considered for special classification and transfer to a RAISE Program halfway house, once they are within 18 to 24 months from release. While in the half way house, program participants will continue to receive instruction from trade masters who own community businesses in order to develop a positive employment history. The RAISE half way house will also provide cognitive therapy groups and drug abuse counseling to all of its residents. Upon completion of the program, each participant will possess a Dept. of Labor Apprenticeship Certificate, a current resume with recent job experience, a birth certificate, a Social Security Card, a state Drivers License, a checking/savings account and all of the mental faculties needed to succeed when faced with adversity. We anticipate having this program established by the end of the year with help from the Univ. of Pitt interns working within this facility.
Prior to the completion of the Inside Out Program, I spoke to Prof. Gasket about assisting him whenever he came back into the institution." A number of men had told me how much they enjoyed his previous "Victim Impact Class" and I knew that was something I wanted to be a part of as well. My request must have sparked an idea because the following week he invited a few other guys and myself to co-facilitate the next class with him. About 3 weeks later, after the completion of the Inside Out Program, he came in to meet with us for a few hours to discuss our vision for the next Victim Impact Class. He encouraged us to each contribute our ideas and was incredibly generous with his time & knowledge. The conversation we shared that day greatly influenced my plans & priorities moving forward.
This past Thursday the new Victim Impact Course was held in the chapel and they had to turn people away at the door. 240+ requests to participate were submitted but only 95 men were accepted. The rest had to be placed on a "waiting list" for the next class. In the past, Dr. Gaskew only accepted between 30 and 40 men, but we were confident that together we could handle the much larger crowd, and we wanted to include as many men as possible. For many of the men in attendance, this was their official introduction to the ReEntry Movement that they had been hearing about but did not quite understand, and it was a success.
During the 2 hour orientation and introduction to the course I had an opportunity to share my personal story of involvement with the criminal justice system spanning nearly 17 years. There were men in attendance that know me well, including my cell mate, who learned a few new things about me that day, and in the time that has elapsed since I spoke, countless men have come up to thank me for sharing it with them. As if I needed any further affirmation about the reprioritizing of my life, those comments assured me that I am indeed on the right path.
While all of these other great developments were taking place, our Life Coaching Class continued to meet for a few hours each week. There was a buzz around the compound about our small group and before long we realized that we needed to figure out a way to expand the class and share what we had already learned with some of the other interested men. As a group, we decided to form 2 new classes that we would facilitate by ourselves, on our own time. One group we named the MARCUS Group, in honor of one member's son who was killed last year, and the other already had a name, the HOPE Coaching Group. Both Groups will meet next week for their first official class and everyone involved is obviously excited about getting started.
The men who were chosen to participate in the HOPE Coaching group are all also members of the HONOR Group that previously expressed an interest in mentoring. When I created the HOPE mentoring program I chose to incorporate the principles & concepts of coaching because I was greatly influenced by what I was learning at the time and recognized the value of that information. The group of men that I will be facilitating have the specific goal of learning to coach young men within this facility in a one to one partnership. I'm confident that our HOPE Coaches will help to create a more positive culture within this prison that eventually spreads out into local communities when our coaches and young coachees are finally released. My goal is to make the program so successful that BOP officials have no choice but to acknowledge our success and decide to export the program nationwide.
A close friend of mine that is also involved in all these programs is due to be released on parole later this year after serving 21 years. While examining all of his future possibilities, he decided to send an email to Mr. Pat Williams, the author of our Life Coaching book and founder of the International Coaching Federation, inquiring about Life Coaching "certification". Through an exchange of emails they quickly developed a relationship and Mr. Williams expressed an interest to work not only with him, but with the rest of our Life Coaching class, to establish a curriculum that suits our unique circumstances. Our original Life Coaching group, that consists of 10 men, will commence Mr. William's suggested course sometime in the next few weeks and it will include a visit from him personally sometime in April. We are exceptionally fortunate to be presented with such an opportunity and I am grateful for his generosity.
Back when we were discussing Apprenticeship certifications for the RAISE Program I discovered that the Depart of Labor offered nothing related to Health and Fitness. Since that's my area of expertise and a source of great joy for me I set out to create my own Group Fitness Trainer Apprenticeship Program for the many men that share my passion for fitness. The result was a Three Phase Course that spans the duration of one year. The first phase of the program is set inside the classroom learning the ISSA's trainer certification text and course materials. The second phase is a "hands-on" experience working with large fitness classes that I currently instruct here in McKean's Recreation Department. The final phase is back in the classroom once a week to learn about program design (on paper) and a boot camp style business set up that would require very little start up capital upon release. Right now the only hindrance to the commencement of this program is the allocation of funds, which may not be forthcoming. I might have to search for outside resources to finance this program but I plan to do whatever is necessary to ensure the incorporation of my apprenticeship program into the ReEntry Movement that continues to gain momentum.
Last year, President Obama appointed Mr. Charles Samuels as the new director of the FBOP. Both Director Samuels and Attorney General Eric Holder have explicitly expressed their commitment to "ReEntry". As a result there's been a greatly increased interest amongst all FBOP inmates, staff and administrators concerning all things labeled "ReEntry". It would appear that FCI McKean has positioned itself at the forefront of this rising tide. As further proof of such, there was a proposal recently submitted to create a "ReEntry Center" inside the abandoned UniCor (now defunct prison industry) offices that have sat vacant for nearly a year now. If approved, the new center would become home to offices and group meeting space for all of the aforementioned ReEntry programs, as well as many more. My plan is to become an integral part of that establishment so that I can focus all of my energy toward the development and implementation of those programs.
There is one more project that I've been working on...a newsletter for federal inmates, their families and friends, and anyone else who is interested in promoting the positive changes currently taking place throughout the Federal Bureau Of Prisons. The FBOPinmate Newsletter is something I began working on about 6 months and plan to help launch before the end of the month. Initially, the content will focus on what has been taking place right here at FCI McKean but as publication circulation grows online we hope to receive contributions from sources nationwide. (Visit www.FBOPinmate.com NOW) I believe that as people begin to learn about what's taking place they will be inspired to support the ReEntry Movement in anyway that they can. My personal contribution to the Movement is helping to disseminate that information to the masses so please be sure to add your email to our mailing list so that you can show your support as well.
Sometime this Spring, I believe in May, there is going to be a symposium titled ReThinkPrisons 2013 held at Vanderbilt University and I was invited to participate. The event organizers have asked me to discuss two different topics: the concepts and goals of the HOPE Program, and my advocacy for an amendment to 18 USC 924(c), the federal firearm statute, prohibiting the "stacking" of mandatory minimum sentences. I'm hoping to participate in the symposium via video conference, pending the approval of the Warden. My girlfriend has also expressed an interest in attending the symposium on my behalf and to offer her perspective on a variety of related reform issues. It's an incredible opportunity that we plan to take full advantage of under whatever circumstances are available to us at the time.
On Monday, 1/14/13, the U.S. Supreme Court is going to hear oral arguments in a 924(c) case, U.S. v. Alleyne, that will draw much needed attention to the federal firearm statute that accounts for 205 years of my 213 year sentence. The Alleyne case deals with the imposition of a tiered mandatory minimum enhancement that results from the singular "use" of a firearm during the commission of a federal felony. Unfortunately, this case does not affect me directly but it could have far reaching implications into a variety of sentencing reform issues. Everyone in the legal community will be watching closely and listening VERY carefully to every word that is exchanged between counsel and the Justices. In the past I have written extensively about this statue and tried to help influence the discussion in a way that will most benefit me in the future. Hopefully this case helps to draw attention to the ENTIRE 924(c) statute and serves to raise awareness about the stacking issue that holds me here. I sincerely believe that we will see a much larger reform, one that eventually affects me, evolve out of the discussions that begin with the Alleyne case.
Earlier this year we created HelpRightAWrong.com as a means to gain support for an amendment prohibiting the "stacking" of multiple 924(c) sentences. The petition posted on that site did so well it managed to capture the attention of the United States Sentencing Commission. As a result, the Commission chose to make the 924(c) amendment their NUMBER ONE PRIORITY for 2013 and beyond. I sincerely believe the only reason that occurred was because of the love and support I have received from so many of you. There's simply no way for me to adequately express my gratitude, so I'll have to settle for a simple but sincere "thank you" to all of you. None of this would have been possible without you and I give my word that I'll do everything within my ability to ensure that you see a return on your investment in me before the end of the year. 2013 is going to be OUR year!
Thankfully I had an old friend waiting to welcome me when I arrived and he helped me make the transition. Since then, I've watched numerous other men arrive from USP's and fail to make the same transition. I know the time I've spent here has allowed me to take a much needed step back toward "normalcy" and all of my relationships have gained much greater depth and meaning as a result of this relaxed environment. It was more difficult to undo the negative conditioning/behaviors of higher security than I care to admit, but I did make it through.
Many years ago I discovered my passion for health and fitness and I've been incredibly fortunate to have so many opportunities to share that passion with the men around me. Over the past year I've taught H.I.I.T. classes, GetFitCamps (boot camps I designed) and Yoga classes to the men within this institution. (See these classes & much more at Prison Body Fitness) These classes have always made me a highly visible & well-respected figure within the prison community but it wasn't until this past year that I discovered how I could use that influence to impact an even larger percentage of the population.
About 6 months ago I approached one of the Assistant Wardens with a concern. During the course of our conversation I expressed that I had a number of ideas that I believed could benefit the entire population. He suggest that I submit those ideas to him on paper, and so I did. A few weeks later I was "invited" to attend a ReEntry Panel Meeting to discuss these ideas. Not knowing what to expect, I showed up at the appointed time & place with nothing but an open mind. What I witnessed during the next 90 minutes inspired me to shift my focus and reevaluate my priorities.
During that first ReEntry Panel Meeting I found myself seated between my fellow inmates and the prison's Executive staff. I had never heard of such an unusual forum and had I not witnessed it myself, I would not have believed it ever existed. We shared an exchange of ideas concerning a variety of ReEntry Program initiatives and discussed how we might all work together to make those programs more effective and accessible to the rest of the population. It was obvious, to me at least, that these efforts, if successful, would greatly benefit both inmates and administrators alike. At that point I needed no further convincing that this "ReEntry Movement" was something I needed to get involved with, despite the face that I am not personally scheduled to "ReEnter" society any time this century. Unfortunately, my distant released date has made many people (at least initially) suspicious of my motives, but I haven't allowed that negativity to deter any of my efforts.
Health and Fitness are still major priorities in my life but I've had to make some room at the top. During that first ReEntry Panel meeting I was challenged to create/establish a "Long Termer's Group" to address the specific needs of men, like myself, that are serving lengthy prison terms. What I did not realize at the time was how my agreement to do so would alter the way my fellow inmates and the administration view me. For the first time in my life, I willingly CHOSE to accept the responsibility of leadership, without feeling like I had no other choice. I sincerely believed that I could use my "gift" to benefit many of the men here...and I was right.
I requested and received a list of men who were all serving lengthy/life sentences and then personally invited most of them to attend an initial, unofficial meeting. Not everyone was interested in getting together but a core group of us formed and have continued to meet every Friday evening since on an unofficial basis. It quickly became apparent that we all shared similar altruistic intentions and saw within this group an opportunity to give something back. Even though the initial purpose of forming the group was to address OUR issues it simply evolved into a "think tank" that has remained focused on improving life for EVERYONE trapped within this environment. We decided to name this collection of like minded long-termers the HONOR Group, and in the months since our initial gathering we've made some tremendous progress.
One of the primary interests we initially discussed as the HONOR Group was developing an effective means of positively influencing the younger men who are just coming into the system. We all expressed a desire to create or participate in some type of mentoring program, so I made a request to one of the administrators for whatever mentoring program information they could find. Before long I had an abundance of info downloaded from the net that need to be sorted and studied before we could go any further.
There were a number of guys that helped me sift through the info and we concluded that there was a great deal of work to be done if we were going to create our own program. I think that realization intimidated most of the guys, but I simple viewed it as another challenge and opportunity. Over the following few months I worked diligently to craft a mentoring program that would best address the needs of young men not only here at FCI McKean but throughout the rest of the FBOP nationwide. What emerged from those efforts has become well known here at FCI McKean as the HOPE Program.
While I was meeting with the HONOR Group and in the process of developing the HOPE Program I was introduced to the concept of "Life Coaching". Intrigued and eager to learn more, I began inquiring about it and requesting info off the net. As fate would have it, the AW in charge of all programming here at McKean (including ReEntry) happens to be an extremely knowledgeable and experienced Life Coach herself. The very first time I spoke to her about coaching she invited me to participate in a small class she was preparing to teach on the subject. At that time I had absolutely No Interest in adding yet another "obligation" to my growing list of responsibilities. However, she was so enthusiastic that I could not bring myself to refuse her offer...and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I've ever made.
The first day that we met as a group to receive our Life Coaching textbooks I arrived early and was introduced to a few of the men I did not know. As we were talking, one of the men suggested that I would be a good candidate to fill a vacancy that had just been created in another program due to the unexpected transfer of one participant. Once our Life Coaching instructor, A.W. Folk, walked into the room it was suggested to her that I fill the recent opening in the Inside Out Program. She thought that was an excellent idea and immediately suggested it to the director of the program, who just happened to walk through the door at that very moment. I was little more than a spectator to the situation but it turned out to be the best decision I never got to make and I'm incredibly grateful for the faith they had in me.
Two days later I was standing outside of the visiting room with a group of men I hardly knew, waiting to be stripped search before admittance to class. The Inside Out Program already existed at numerous state prisons across the country but it had never been permitted inside a male federal facility. My class was the "pilot program" and they made it abundantly clear that we would be watched very carefully and our actions would likely determine the future of the program for the rest of the men throughout the FBOP.
My late arrival occurred in week 3 of the 13 week Criminal Justice Course discussing author Michele Alexander's controversial book titled "The New Jim Crow...Mass Incarceration in the Age of Color blindness". The course was taught by University of Pittsburgh Professor Tony Gaskew and attended by 15 of his U. Pitt "outside students" and 15 of us "inside students". Each week all 30 students were required to submit a "reflection paper" (read my reflection papers) concerning the required reading and/or previous class discussion and then also contribute to that weeks group discourse. The experience definitely increased my intellectual confidence and contributed to my further personal development. I know for certain, only because it has been mentioned many times since, that we (the Inside Students) far exceeded EVERYONE'S expectations and I'm extremely proud to have been a part of that class and program.
The last few weeks of the Inside Out Program were scheduled to include "group projects" but we had no idea what to expect. When the time arrived, Dr. Gaskew suggested a few different projects that each involved the ReEntry movement already taking place at McKean. Myself and another Inside Student came up with a rather ambitious and unique project unlike any other that had been suggested and then devised a plan to recruit certain Outside students into our new group. Thankfully, Dr. Gaskew gave us his approval and the RAISE Program was green lighted as an Inside Out group project. The acronym RAISE stands for ReEntry Apprenticeships Initiative for Skills Enhancement and the goal of our program is to ensure that every participant leaves prison with a trade and maintains employment upon release.
All RAISE participants would be required to work at a shop within the prison where they can acquire the instruction and experience needed for a Dept. Of Labor Apprenticeship Certification. After accumulating at least HALF of the total required Apprenticeship hours they will be considered for special classification and transfer to a RAISE Program halfway house, once they are within 18 to 24 months from release. While in the half way house, program participants will continue to receive instruction from trade masters who own community businesses in order to develop a positive employment history. The RAISE half way house will also provide cognitive therapy groups and drug abuse counseling to all of its residents. Upon completion of the program, each participant will possess a Dept. of Labor Apprenticeship Certificate, a current resume with recent job experience, a birth certificate, a Social Security Card, a state Drivers License, a checking/savings account and all of the mental faculties needed to succeed when faced with adversity. We anticipate having this program established by the end of the year with help from the Univ. of Pitt interns working within this facility.
Prior to the completion of the Inside Out Program, I spoke to Prof. Gasket about assisting him whenever he came back into the institution." A number of men had told me how much they enjoyed his previous "Victim Impact Class" and I knew that was something I wanted to be a part of as well. My request must have sparked an idea because the following week he invited a few other guys and myself to co-facilitate the next class with him. About 3 weeks later, after the completion of the Inside Out Program, he came in to meet with us for a few hours to discuss our vision for the next Victim Impact Class. He encouraged us to each contribute our ideas and was incredibly generous with his time & knowledge. The conversation we shared that day greatly influenced my plans & priorities moving forward.
This past Thursday the new Victim Impact Course was held in the chapel and they had to turn people away at the door. 240+ requests to participate were submitted but only 95 men were accepted. The rest had to be placed on a "waiting list" for the next class. In the past, Dr. Gaskew only accepted between 30 and 40 men, but we were confident that together we could handle the much larger crowd, and we wanted to include as many men as possible. For many of the men in attendance, this was their official introduction to the ReEntry Movement that they had been hearing about but did not quite understand, and it was a success.
During the 2 hour orientation and introduction to the course I had an opportunity to share my personal story of involvement with the criminal justice system spanning nearly 17 years. There were men in attendance that know me well, including my cell mate, who learned a few new things about me that day, and in the time that has elapsed since I spoke, countless men have come up to thank me for sharing it with them. As if I needed any further affirmation about the reprioritizing of my life, those comments assured me that I am indeed on the right path.
While all of these other great developments were taking place, our Life Coaching Class continued to meet for a few hours each week. There was a buzz around the compound about our small group and before long we realized that we needed to figure out a way to expand the class and share what we had already learned with some of the other interested men. As a group, we decided to form 2 new classes that we would facilitate by ourselves, on our own time. One group we named the MARCUS Group, in honor of one member's son who was killed last year, and the other already had a name, the HOPE Coaching Group. Both Groups will meet next week for their first official class and everyone involved is obviously excited about getting started.
The men who were chosen to participate in the HOPE Coaching group are all also members of the HONOR Group that previously expressed an interest in mentoring. When I created the HOPE mentoring program I chose to incorporate the principles & concepts of coaching because I was greatly influenced by what I was learning at the time and recognized the value of that information. The group of men that I will be facilitating have the specific goal of learning to coach young men within this facility in a one to one partnership. I'm confident that our HOPE Coaches will help to create a more positive culture within this prison that eventually spreads out into local communities when our coaches and young coachees are finally released. My goal is to make the program so successful that BOP officials have no choice but to acknowledge our success and decide to export the program nationwide.
A close friend of mine that is also involved in all these programs is due to be released on parole later this year after serving 21 years. While examining all of his future possibilities, he decided to send an email to Mr. Pat Williams, the author of our Life Coaching book and founder of the International Coaching Federation, inquiring about Life Coaching "certification". Through an exchange of emails they quickly developed a relationship and Mr. Williams expressed an interest to work not only with him, but with the rest of our Life Coaching class, to establish a curriculum that suits our unique circumstances. Our original Life Coaching group, that consists of 10 men, will commence Mr. William's suggested course sometime in the next few weeks and it will include a visit from him personally sometime in April. We are exceptionally fortunate to be presented with such an opportunity and I am grateful for his generosity.
Back when we were discussing Apprenticeship certifications for the RAISE Program I discovered that the Depart of Labor offered nothing related to Health and Fitness. Since that's my area of expertise and a source of great joy for me I set out to create my own Group Fitness Trainer Apprenticeship Program for the many men that share my passion for fitness. The result was a Three Phase Course that spans the duration of one year. The first phase of the program is set inside the classroom learning the ISSA's trainer certification text and course materials. The second phase is a "hands-on" experience working with large fitness classes that I currently instruct here in McKean's Recreation Department. The final phase is back in the classroom once a week to learn about program design (on paper) and a boot camp style business set up that would require very little start up capital upon release. Right now the only hindrance to the commencement of this program is the allocation of funds, which may not be forthcoming. I might have to search for outside resources to finance this program but I plan to do whatever is necessary to ensure the incorporation of my apprenticeship program into the ReEntry Movement that continues to gain momentum.
Last year, President Obama appointed Mr. Charles Samuels as the new director of the FBOP. Both Director Samuels and Attorney General Eric Holder have explicitly expressed their commitment to "ReEntry". As a result there's been a greatly increased interest amongst all FBOP inmates, staff and administrators concerning all things labeled "ReEntry". It would appear that FCI McKean has positioned itself at the forefront of this rising tide. As further proof of such, there was a proposal recently submitted to create a "ReEntry Center" inside the abandoned UniCor (now defunct prison industry) offices that have sat vacant for nearly a year now. If approved, the new center would become home to offices and group meeting space for all of the aforementioned ReEntry programs, as well as many more. My plan is to become an integral part of that establishment so that I can focus all of my energy toward the development and implementation of those programs.
There is one more project that I've been working on...a newsletter for federal inmates, their families and friends, and anyone else who is interested in promoting the positive changes currently taking place throughout the Federal Bureau Of Prisons. The FBOPinmate Newsletter is something I began working on about 6 months and plan to help launch before the end of the month. Initially, the content will focus on what has been taking place right here at FCI McKean but as publication circulation grows online we hope to receive contributions from sources nationwide. (Visit www.FBOPinmate.com NOW) I believe that as people begin to learn about what's taking place they will be inspired to support the ReEntry Movement in anyway that they can. My personal contribution to the Movement is helping to disseminate that information to the masses so please be sure to add your email to our mailing list so that you can show your support as well.
Sometime this Spring, I believe in May, there is going to be a symposium titled ReThinkPrisons 2013 held at Vanderbilt University and I was invited to participate. The event organizers have asked me to discuss two different topics: the concepts and goals of the HOPE Program, and my advocacy for an amendment to 18 USC 924(c), the federal firearm statute, prohibiting the "stacking" of mandatory minimum sentences. I'm hoping to participate in the symposium via video conference, pending the approval of the Warden. My girlfriend has also expressed an interest in attending the symposium on my behalf and to offer her perspective on a variety of related reform issues. It's an incredible opportunity that we plan to take full advantage of under whatever circumstances are available to us at the time.
On Monday, 1/14/13, the U.S. Supreme Court is going to hear oral arguments in a 924(c) case, U.S. v. Alleyne, that will draw much needed attention to the federal firearm statute that accounts for 205 years of my 213 year sentence. The Alleyne case deals with the imposition of a tiered mandatory minimum enhancement that results from the singular "use" of a firearm during the commission of a federal felony. Unfortunately, this case does not affect me directly but it could have far reaching implications into a variety of sentencing reform issues. Everyone in the legal community will be watching closely and listening VERY carefully to every word that is exchanged between counsel and the Justices. In the past I have written extensively about this statue and tried to help influence the discussion in a way that will most benefit me in the future. Hopefully this case helps to draw attention to the ENTIRE 924(c) statute and serves to raise awareness about the stacking issue that holds me here. I sincerely believe that we will see a much larger reform, one that eventually affects me, evolve out of the discussions that begin with the Alleyne case.
Earlier this year we created HelpRightAWrong.com as a means to gain support for an amendment prohibiting the "stacking" of multiple 924(c) sentences. The petition posted on that site did so well it managed to capture the attention of the United States Sentencing Commission. As a result, the Commission chose to make the 924(c) amendment their NUMBER ONE PRIORITY for 2013 and beyond. I sincerely believe the only reason that occurred was because of the love and support I have received from so many of you. There's simply no way for me to adequately express my gratitude, so I'll have to settle for a simple but sincere "thank you" to all of you. None of this would have been possible without you and I give my word that I'll do everything within my ability to ensure that you see a return on your investment in me before the end of the year. 2013 is going to be OUR year!
