I am Women’s Bean Project: Monique

This story discusses justice involvement. 

My name is Monique.

I am 54 years old. I came to Women’s Bean Project, because a very close friend of mine was smiling everyday and she looked very happy with life. I thought to myself it looks good on her. So, I talked to her and she told me about the Women’s Bean Project. I decided to put in an application. It is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

I didn’t realize that I was in a rut. Doing this wonderful thing has changed the way I think, what I believe in myself. I have a newfound courage. I’ve learned a lot of important things and what we do here is very important. Every day, I feel more confident about myself. I’m sad about graduating but in that same breath I am excited about the new things to come.

The Staff has been wonderful. They support us in everything we do. Their kindness is incredible. I love my co-workers. I have a new outlook on life.

I should be getting off parole soon. This job experience has made me able to save money and having all the things that I need. I will have enough money to move to Portland Oregon to go be with my children. Because, that has been a dream of mine for a very long time.

I would recommend this program to all who deserve a positive change in their lives, I probably won’t be the same person I was when I started here, and that’s alright with me.