In honor of National Volunteer Week, a look at one woman's outstanding service

Inmates across the country know firsthand the value that volunteers bring to educational, faith-based, substance abuse and other reentry programs. These dedicated volunteers help inmates learn, grow and better position themselves to successfully stay out of prison once released. In celebration of National Volunteer Week (April 15-21), we’d like to spotlight one such volunteer, Erma Wright, and her efforts in Oklahoma City.

Wright began her volunteer service at CoreCivic in 2007 and has been a standout ever since. As someone who was previously incarcerated, Wright has a strong belief in the power of a second chance and uses her experience and perspective to connect with facility residents.

Her first endeavor was as the Bible study volunteer at two CoreCivic Community facilities: Carver Transitional Center (CTC) and Oklahoma City Transitional Center. After two years, Wright felt called to a new role. She completed training to facilitate the 100-Hour Transition program, which teaches participants the importance of wellness, household, job and financial responsibilities after reentry. She also received training to lead the Victim Impact program. Today, she facilitates two Victim Impact programs with 35 participants between both facilities. Each course lasts 13 weeks and aims to reduce recidivism by teaching residents about the wide-ranging effects of crime.

“Participants typically have a reluctant attitude when they begin the Victim Impact program,” Wright said. “When they hear others’ success stories, they start to see that change is possible and their attitude quickly transforms.”

Wright’s work doesn’t end at the facility gate. At her church, she developed ministry efforts to help inmates successfully reenter society. She now counts more than 30 volunteers from six local churches following her lead. They provide residents with transportation to and from community service, work, counseling and worship services.

In Wright's previous work as an office manager for UnitedServices Companies – a staffing solutions firm – she helped to employ 70 former offenders. Today, she co-manages Havin Investments LLC with her husband while also helping to manage The Potter’s House, which supports former inmates in transition.

Wright said she is inspired by Thomas, a former participant of her Victim Impact program who began working for a landscaping company as a resident at CTC. After his release in December 2015, he advanced in the company to supervisor and won Employee of the Year.

“Thomas' story is a reminder that the sky is the limit,” Wright said. “He is someone who motivates me to continue my volunteer work.”

Wright is a bright star in the CoreCivic volunteer community and an uplifting example of service during National Volunteer Week. We want to thank her and all the volunteers among us, for their life-changing work.