November 2023

Holistic Transformation in Corrections: The HEART of Our Work

An Approach from the HEART   HEART is the acronym for the Resilience Prison Project’s holistic approach to transforming corrections that also incorporates an all-inclusive and transformative framework. Hence, HEART (Heal, Empower, Accept, Restore, Thrive) stands for a deep dedication towards learning communities within prison. We recognize the inherent potential for positive change and growth within […]

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Transformation happens when we build leaders from inside prisons

Empowering Change: RPP’s Train the Trainers Program

The Resilience Prison Project’s mission has the belief in transformation and second chances at its core. More than a program that rehabilitates, our approach aims to empower change i.e. it helps individuals become change agents within their communities. A comprehensive Train the Trainers program is one of the ways we empower those who will lead

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Neuroplasticity and NVC (Nonviolent Communication)

Neuroplasticity and NVC: Neuro-Pathways for LIFE

Nonviolent Communication (NVC) is a framework that was developed by Marshall B. Rosenberg to promote empathic and compassionate communication between people. NVC is, basically, used for improving one’s relationships with others.  Its essence and value may be better appreciated by considering neuroscience. This essay examines the neuroscience of NVC. We will explore how the brain

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Transforming lives behind bars

Transforming Lives Behind Bars: The Power of NVC Prison Programs with Transformative Learning

After 25 years of experiencing the criminal justice system as an incarcerated person inside the Oklahoma Department of Corrections, I have witnessed first hand how the concept of rehabilitation has often been overshadowed by punitive systems. However, along the way I have also discovered some game changers like Nonviolent Communication (NVC), restorative justice, mindfulness, and

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Mindfulness practice within OPP

Mindfulness within the Resilience Prison Project

“Mindfulness means paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the present moment, and nonjudgmentally.” – Jon Kabat-Zinn Welcome to the Mindfulness initiative within the Resilience Prison Project. The profound impact of mindfulness practices within correctional environments inspired this transformative journey. In this initiative, incarcerated individuals discover unique opportunities for self-regulation, emotional growth, and

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Restorative Justice in correctional environments brings healing

Restorative Justice in Correctional Environments

Bringing Restorative Justice in Correctional Environments assumes a central role in the Resilience Prison Project. It fosters accountability, empathy, and reconciliation among adults in custody, those harmed by crime, and their families. This transformative approach has shown profound impacts on participants within custody and our dedicated volunteers.   Restorative Justice is defined as a philosophy

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Resilience Trumps ACEs overcomes adversity

Resilience Trumps ACEs: Transforming Trauma in Prison

Pathways for LIFE is proud to partner with the Community Resilience Initiative to bring their comprehensive certification program into the Oklahoma Department of Corrections through the Resilience Prison Project. This phase of our program, collectively referred to as Resilience Trumps ACEs, includes three crucial trainings. These are Trauma Informed, Trauma Supportive, and Trauma Practitioner. These equip

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Increasing Empathic Capacity in Prison with NVC

Society faces the complex challenge of rehabilitating adults in custody for violent crimes while ensuring public safety. Traditional punitive measures often fail to address the root causes of criminal behavior. However, Nonviolent Communication (NVC), sees a different world. Combined with Heinz Kohut’s argument that many of our undesired behaviors result from empathic failure, it presents

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Adverse Childhood Experiences in OK

Understanding ACEs and Their Impact on Oklahoma

The Critical Role of Trauma Informed Care in ODOC Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) have a deep impact on individuals, families and communities. Oklahoma ranks 41st with respect to ACEs in the United States. Only 40 states have lesser children experiencing such traumatic events per person. This statistic highlights a critical issue affecting numerous Oklahomans leading

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