Hope and Change: Our First Workshop
On February 24, 2025, we hosted our first Next Chapters Solutions workshop at Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility in Ionia, Michigan—an experience that was both powerful and inspiring. With the support of 20 volunteers, we engaged in meaningful conversations with a group of incarcerated individuals, fostering reflection, dialogue, and connection.
Our Workshop Approach
We designed the workshop around two key modules, each aimed at sparking self-reflection and meaningful discussion. We structured the workshop into four key parts:
Introduction – Setting the tone and purpose for the session.
Independent Study & Reflection – Encouraging participants to think deeply through the questions presented in the modules.
Breakout Sessions – Small group discussions to dive deeper into personal insights and shared experiences.
Feedback & Closing – Gathering thoughts on what worked, what could improve, and what else participants wanted to explore.
Key Takeaways
The response was overwhelmingly positive. Participants engaged deeply, shared openly, and, most importantly, wanted more.
According to our survey:
100% of participants rated the workshop as "Excellent" or "Good."
The most valuable part was personal reflection and group discussions, with 90% selecting it as their favorite.
100% said they felt comfortable sharing their thoughts in group discussions.
What We Learned
From the feedback, we gained valuable insights into what participants want to see in future workshops:
More time for group discussions and presentations
More materials that cover broader topics and present resources
Some of the comments directly from the survey:
“ I believe that this program is going to do wonders.”
“Feels good”
“Ultimately, this is an awesome workshop and I am excited to be part of helping the war on recidivism”
“In the future, maybe a video illustration of the technology”
“Great program concept - I can’t wait to see it completed”
“Thank you for your work. It shows possibilities and hope for a good future”
“Day 1 was impactful. Some of us were able to share our experience with other inmates. It’s like group discussions carried over to the unit”
Looking Ahead
This was just the beginning. The energy, engagement, and demand for more workshops reinforce our belief in the importance of these spaces. We are committed to continuing this work—expanding the conversation, refining our approach, and ensuring that those who need support the most have a platform to express, reflect, and grow.
A huge thank you to our volunteers, participants, and everyone supporting this initiative. Your voices are shaping the future of Next Chapters Solutions.
A special thank you to Robert McGeorge and Chuck Prince from MDOC for organizing and helping make this experience truly unforgettable!
- Pankaj Chaudhary & Nate Johnson
Founders, Next Chapters Solutions
