Fall is a season of transformation, and at Free Minds, members embody the season with powerful book club discussions hands-on learning, healing, and celebration.
Building Strength Through Shared Wisdom
Our Reentry Book Club, The Build Up, continues to grow with an average of 180 members gathering weekly. The current book club selection is a fan favorite, Trevor Noah’s Born a Crime: Stories From a South African Childhood. The book talks about Noah’s background, his journey from growing up biracial during Apartheid, and becoming a global voice for humor, justice, and resilience. One of his quotes sparked a powerful discussion:
“Give a man a fish, and he’ll eat for a day. Teach a man to fish, and he’ll eat for a lifetime. What they don’t say is, ‘And it would be nice if you gave him a fishing rod.’”
That line struck a deep chord. Jamal reflected, “I’m not looking for a handout. I’m looking for a hand up,” adding that Free Minds has done just that, an important reminder of the barriers that persist and the support systems that make a difference. Another inspiring moment came from our dedicated Young Adult Breakout Room where Lamar commented that, “For the people who come from poverty, your goal should be to find out what’s on the other side.” Thanks to our generous donors we’re able to provide that “fishing rod”—the tools, resources, and opportunities that help our members thrive. Your support helps turn conversations into change, and hope into action. Together, we’re building something extraordinary.