By Michael Callahan, Layout Designer

For the first time since COVID-19, Kid CAT (Creating Awareness Together) celebrated almost 100 residents who completed First Step, which centers on addressing trauma, or Junior Lifers Support Group, which focuses on parole board preparation.

For 15 years, Kid CAT has guided youth and life-term offenders through mentorship, compassion, and edification. Their vision is to inspire individuals to grow into caring and productive members of their communities.

“Vulnerability is really important and if you go to Board; emotional intelligence is key to understanding where your emotions come from so you can deal with them appropriately. Today is a testament to the work you put in which is amazing because most people outside prison don’t,” said Trevor Lawson, Kid CAT’s Chairman.

Since the inception of Kid CAT, Dr. Z has volunteered his time to help educate residents on elements of denial, criminal thinking behaviors, victim impact, domestic violence, and the causative factors of their crimes.

Dr. Z told attendees about how his experience sky diving was similar to their rehabilitative journey. He said no matter how unnerving something is, it does not mean you cannot turn that experience into something amazing.

“Trust yourself to have skills to handle life, especially when you feel unprepared. You have the ability to coast and know your chute is available, so be ready to skydive,” Dr. Z said.

Several other volunteers spoke about how the individuals who completed the programs affected them. They discussed how their accountability, vulnerability, honesty, and commitment to personal growth should be replicated outside the prison.

Resident Eliazar Guerra said, “Those of us in here that came in young, we are the future. We can be the kind of change out in society that is needed.”

Guerra said change starts with involvement in programs and working with people mentoring others to step out and into that light. “Vulnerability is our most accurate measure of courage.”

Certificates were passed out and entertainment was provided by members of Kid CAT as attendees enjoyed Drewski’s BBQ.

“I was a person who did not care about others or myself,” resident Aaron Moton said.

Moton came to prison at 23 years old. He said the toxic masculinity part of the First Step curriculum resonated most. “Today I realize my masculine self is a man of God, someone who is accountable and responsible for his actions.”