Visiting people in prison is something I could do that would directly help someone now, rather than waiting until we have a bill restricting solitary confinement or reform of the clemency system. I saw we could get results, especially for medical or mental health care.
The people I visit are very appreciative of the time I spend listening to them. That is the most meaningful part. Imagine you never have a chance to have a private conversation with someone you can trust. On the outside, we take this for granted, but in prison, it’s rare. Isolation has a big effect on mental health. It doesn't take any special skill to listen and try to understand another person.
