Warning: A bit off--topic but somehow seems relevant.
rotterdam, I am so pleased to hear an up-side of this! DH and church members bought and refurbished two mobile homes to try to help excons (outmates, as I called them) transition into society on an even keel. Here in FL, when they are released, they get one set of civilian clothes, a toiletry kit and a ticket to their home (not sure how home is determined). We all thought it would be a win-win situation if there could be a family to welcome them (they've typically burned up favors from their own) and help and guidance for the transition into a productive life into the real world. We probably hosted only about 50 people through our small effort. Transportation, renewal of driver's licensees, helping find work, food, medical care and interaction with the .
I came to love many, not all, of them; but we have had only one success story in all those people. So you can understand how it pleases my heart to hear that you have appreciation for those who did help you along the way. Recidivism rate is horrendous but DH and I kept reminding ourselves that you can't expect a person to change lifelong habits, traits and desires in a few months ~ no matter what goals and rewards you offer. And even though what we had offered at the time didn't seem to accomplish our goals ~ a seed may have been planted that will grow, in the future, unbeknownst to us.
I have no doubt that Casey will also find like-minded people. I just hope she doesn't take advantage of them. Casey will find, in the "system" what she wants to find. . . and the "system," at this point, owes her nothing better than is offered to other FL outmates!