When someone leaves jail or prison, even simple needs can make it hard to start over. Golden Rule ReEntry helps people overcome barriers, connect with resources and take the first steps toward stability.
When we last checked in with Golden Rule ReEntry, the organization had served about 200 people returning to society after incarceration. Today, the Southern Oregon nonprofit supports roughly 400 individuals each year.
Founded in 2020 by Executive Director Abigail Lewis, Golden Rule ReEntry was created to help people navigate one of life's most challenging transitions.
"This is my life's work," Abby said.
An Avista Foundation grant helped replenish Golden Rule's emergency fund, providing resources to overcome everyday obstacles that can stand in the way of success. The fund helps participants pay for necessities, like replacing an ID card, fixing a flat tire or buying shoes for a job interview. While those needs may seem small, Abby says they’re often the first steps toward much bigger changes.
The practical help Golden Rule provides is important, but staff members say the real difference comes from the care and connection participants receive.
"We're their guardrails, their home base," Abby said. "We care about each person's journey."
That support goes beyond meeting immediate needs. Staff spend time with people who may not feel comfortable walking into a business on their own. They help participants build confidence, develop life skills and create a path toward a better future.
"We don’t want to just help someone find a job. We want to put them on a career track and help heal them," Abby said. She believes lasting recovery and stability are rooted in connection.
Golden Rule has a small and dedicated staff, many of whom have experienced incarceration themselves. Their firsthand experiences help them connect with participants in meaningful ways.
Brandi Ferreira spent 12 years incarcerated in state and federal prison before rebuilding her life through recovery and re-entry. Now she helps others navigate that same transition.
"Connection is the opposite of addiction," said Brandi, who now serves as a case and intake manager at Golden Rule. "Abby saw something in me that I didn't see in myself. Sometimes you just need one person to believe in you before you're able to believe in yourself."
Education Specialist Vera Hughes understands those challenges firsthand. After leaving prison, she struggled with feelings of isolation and stigma.
"It felt like I was wearing a sign," Vera said. "It took years to get my life together. I'm grateful to be here now because I can help other people realize they aren't defined by their past."
Vera says not everyone who walks through Golden Rule’s doors is ready to make a change right away.
"A lot of people come in and learn about our services, but they're not ready yet," Vera said. "The important thing is they know where to come when they are."
When participants are ready, the impact can be life-changing. One participant said Golden Rule's support helped him rediscover possibilities he could no longer see for himself.
"I had lost the ability to believe in my own success. I'd lost hope. Golen Rule offered support and gave me the chance to surprise myself. It helped me see a new vision for my future and the kind of man I want to be. I'll forever be grateful for that chance," said Matthew Bertrand, a participant who was promoted and now serves as a house manager.
Abby calls the organization's approach the ‘prison-to-prosperity pipeline.’
To support that goal, Golden Rule offers classes on life skills, self-esteem, healthy relationships, grief, personal growth and professional development. Some participants have advanced so far they are now pursuing engineering degrees and other professional careers.
Paul Sheldon, a senior executive advisor whose been involved with Golden Rule since its start, says asking for help can be one of the hardest steps.
"Our priority is people who are ready to move forward," Paul said. "Many of them aren't used to asking for help. We want them to know it's okay."
At Avista, we recognize our unique position gives us the chance to contribute in an impactful way and make a real difference in people’s lives. Since 2002, the Avista Foundation has made grants totaling over $17 million to organizations that support vulnerable and limited income populations, education, and economic and cultural vitality. The foundation is a separate, non-profit organization established by Avista Corp., and does not receive funding from Avista Utilities’ customers through rates. For more information on grant applications and geographical areas covered, please visit avistafoundation.com.