Code to Freedom: Transforming My Life with Tech Behind Bars

My time with Televerde keeps getting more amazing. The latest big thing? I got transferred from Rockville to Madison prison, and with that, I stepped into the work release program. This isn't about moving from one place to another. It's a huge sign of the trust I've earned and how far I've come. It's opened up a whole new world for me to keep growing as a website specialist with Televerde. Every step feels like I'm moving closer to getting back into society. When my Televerde manager said this move shows how much I've grown and what I'm capable of, it really hit home.

Now, let me fill you in on the latest from my end! First off, Madison has been incredible for my growth. Having more freedom and being able to use the Internet has changed everything. It's like having a key to a never-ending library of knowledge. I'm learning new stuff every day, getting sharper at my skills, and feeling more confident. And let me tell you about AI tools like Bard and ChatGPT – these have become my go-to for organizing my thoughts, researching, and shaping my ideas into something real and doable. Plus, I'm getting better at writing, which is a huge win since I'm part of the marketing and communications team here!

Tech Breakthroughs Behind Bars

I'm exploring areas like Google Analytics, SEO, and content creation – skills I never imagined developing while incarcerated. Staying up-to-date with current technologies and trends is not only boosting my contribution to the team but also preparing me for the future. The quality and impact of my work have significantly improved, a testament to the skills I’ve been able to acquire.

I recently got to dive into an exciting project – developing a new client portal for Televerde. It's been a fantastic opportunity to apply my new skills in a real-world context. What I love most is understanding more about what creates an outstanding customer experience. It’s been fascinating to learn what clicks with customers and just how crucial it is to keep those connections strong. Plus, it's given me a chance to work side by side with colleagues from sales and customer success. This collaboration has been great for building tighter bonds with the broader Televerde team.

As I look forward to 2024, I have big dreams and plans. I'm eager to get even more involved with web analytics and design, pursuing certifications in Google Analytics, graphic design, and SEO. But it’s not just about the certificates or the skills – it’s about growing as a person and as a professional. I’m excited to understand the ins and outs of business, to see how web development and marketing dance together, and to find my own rhythm in that mix!

Prioritizing Digital Literacy in Prisons

Getting access to technology and resources at Madison has been a game changer for me, but it's not just a free-for-all. It's all within a system designed for a place like this. Navigating this system has taught me how to stand up for what I need, both for myself and my work. For example, convincing the powers-that-be that YouTube isn't just for fun – it's a goldmine for learning. Every step of this journey has made me sharper in digital smarts and bolder in how I communicate. Facing these hurdles hasn't just upped my tech game. It has deepened my understanding of how the digital world functions and how crucial being tech-savvy is nowadays.

I've come to realize, perhaps more than ever, the immense value of the opportunities I've been given here in Indiana. In some ways, I’m grateful for being incarcerated in a state that offers such unique programs. It's eye-opening to learn that most states do not. I picture a day when what's happening here in Indiana becomes common everywhere. Imagine a world where technology and opportunities like the ones I have aren't just lucky breaks but the standard for everyone behind bars. We're living at a time that's more connected than ever, so why not make digital know-how and real-world skills something any incarcerated person can grab hold of if they want to? I'm itching to fight for this kind of change once I'm out – really shaking things up with policy changes to open up these chances for more people. It's about so much more than helping women and men get back on their feet. It is about giving them the tools to really make a mark. We could turn the tide on people returning to prison and start changing the narrative about what we can bring to the table after we've served our time.

My days here at Madison, working with Televerde, have been way more than just a countdown to getting out. It's been like jumping headfirst into a whole new way of living – one where I'm actually making things happen, getting creative, and growing in ways I never thought possible. This entire experience has totally changed how I view my potential and my place in this world. Most important, however, is that I'm surer than ever that I've got something real and positive to give, not just while I'm here but long after I've walked out these gates.