Since my retirement, I have spent time studying criminal justice and how it has impacted our society. I yearned to have direct impact and decided to join and visit individuals in the Allegheny County Jail.
I felt satisfaction when I could help even one individual improve the treatment they were experiencing. I have found it to be rewarding in terms of increased understanding, empathy, and awareness. I developed respect for administrators and correctional officers who also face challenging conditions.
Being a volunteer has been one of the most meaningful things I have experienced. No matter why these individuals are incarcerated, they are still human beings deserving of respect and dignity.
