The unthinkable | Michael Grasing | TED Goes to Prison at Coxsackie Correctional Facility 2022
Listen to the story of how one horrible decision can affect so many lives forever. Nevertheless, it's never too late to turn your life around and attempt to become a better person. A reckless lifestyle and a series of extremely poor decisions culminated in a long prison sentence for Michael Grasing. However, since entering prison, he has dedicated his life to becoming better and is no longer the man he was. He was born and raised on the South Shore of Long Island by two wonderful and supportive parents and is the proud father of 13-year-old Michael Grasing III. He looks forward to being a positive influence on his his community upon release.
Heroin: through the eyes of a younger brother | Tommy Sablan | TEDxDonovanCorrectional 2018
Growing up in the 70's and 80's, Tommy was the younger brother of two heroin addicts. Tommy takes you through the different stages of his life as his brothers were going through their addiction. “I am amazed that there's a heroin epidemic that is happening in our schools and community today. I have been given the wisdom to speak to young students and families that are struggling because of the fact I grew up with two brothers that were heroin addicts. I do not preach to not do drugs. People already know that but what I can tell is my family's story and maybe it will help others make better choices in life.” Tommy is a radio and television producer, but most importantly, he is a father of two.
Motivations from my life | Tamika Sheppard | TEDxMuncyStatePrison 2014
Tamika Sheppard did not aspire to be a “crackhead prostitute,” as a child, but her addiction to drugs repeatedly led her to a life on the streets and prison. It was in prison, Ms. Sheppard says, that she learned that her life matters. She hopes her story encourages others to not follow her path.
Working toward redemption | Heather Lavelle | TEDxMuncyStatePrison 2014
College-educated Heather Lavelle was a successful professional until alcohol and drug addiction led her to commit a crime that resulted in a life prison sentence. Ms. Lavelle discusses “Working toward Redemption,’’ beginning with the hardest task of all - forgiving herself.
Resiliency and recovery | Jennifer Storm | TEDxMuncyStatePrison 2014
Jennifer Storm, Pennsylvania’s Victim Advocate, shares her personal story of healing from sexual abuse, followed by self-destructive drug and alcohol addiction, in “Resiliency & Recovery.’’ Her journey of recovery has resulted in a career dedicated to helping other victims through public service. As the state's Victim Advocate, Ms. Storm is responsible for representing the rights and interests of crime victims. Her duties include notifying crime victims of potential for inmate release and movement with the correctional system, as well of offering the victims an opportunity to provide testimony and other assistance.
Whose foot is on my neck? | Gloria Bridget | TEDxIronwoodStatePrison 2014
Gloria Bridget has been working in the criminal justice field for over 10 years as a Case Manager for The Female Offender Treatment and Employment Program, Transitional Counselor for the Re-Entry program at Ironwood State Prison, and as well as a Motivational Speaker. She has assisted thousands of people, including offenders, change their lives and reintegrate into society. Because of Gloria‘s professionalism, expertise, training, and commitment she is able to overcome many of the challenges that are presented to her. Using her education, life experiences, and networking she is committed to enhancing peoples‘ lives every day.