Apprehension Turns to Appreciation
Yesterday, I had the unique opportunity to visit the Gadsden County Correctional Facility (Women’s Prison) on the Greensboro Highway. Initially, I was apprehensive about visiting a women’s prison, but I’m glad I went.
A Positive Environment
While there may be unpleasant parts of the prison, the areas I saw were remarkably positive. It felt more like a vocational institution than a prison—a place for starting over. I couldn’t help but think how much better off these women would have been if they had access to such a place before getting into trouble.
 Culinary Delights and Learning Opportunities
The luncheon was delicious, prepared by the Culinary Department, where women learn to cook healthy, nutritional meals for themselves and their families. I could use a couple of those classes myself! Warden Jerry Buscher explained that this is the first privately owned prison in the state, housing 1,200 to 1,400 inmates, with an average of two years left on their terms. The primary goal is focused on re-entry and preparing women to find work and acquire necessary skills for life outside.
Health and Wellness Initiatives
The warden shared that many women arrive in poor health and often drug-addicted. His immediate goal is to improve their health through various exercise programs and yoga classes. The facility boasts a large gym with a running track. The warden believes that if the women leave with nothing else, they will at least have a healthy body through the exercise programs, good food, and medical and dental care.
Companions at the Luncheon
I had the pleasure of sitting with my old friend, Keith Dowdell, my new friend, Interim Chief Hill, and his assistant Dee Dee. After lunch, we toured some of the opportunities the prison offers.
Vocational Training and Career Preparation
There is a large area dedicated to teaching cosmetology, where students learn hairdressing, facials, waxing, and everything needed to obtain a cosmetology license. Upon release, they receive a suitcase with all the tools they need to start working immediately.
Technology and Animal Training Programs
The computer department helps women become computer literate, essential for most jobs today. There’s also a dog training area where women train dogs for the blind, the handicapped, and K-9 police work, preparing them for careers as vet techs.
Education and Financial Independence
Education is a strong focus, with women working towards their GEDs and celebrating graduations when they earn their diplomas. Financial independence is emphasized, teaching women how to manage money and avoid reliance on others.
Spiritual and Community Support
Religious studies are encouraged through Bible classes, church services, and singing, with several local churches participating. First Presbyterian runs a program where they make pillowcases and provide pillows for the inmates.
Greenhouse Gifts and Herbal Remedies
As we were leaving, we saw two large greenhouses and I was thrilled to receive some tree of life plants. A kind woman shared her success in treating medical issues with herbal concoctions and promised to share her notes once written.
A Transformative Experience
This visit exceeded my expectations. I saw women who looked happy, accomplished, and were gaining new attitudes and self-respect. There was nothing depressing about my visit.
A Bright Future Ahead
The Gadsden County Correctional Facility is a wonderful place, and Warden Buscher is doing an excellent job preparing these women for a successful re-entry into the community.
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