A poker run and rodeo to benefit recently released women inmates will take place April 18 at the Buckeye Equestrian Center.
A number of sponsorship levels are available for the benefit.
In Arizona’s state prisons between 2022 and 2024, at least two-thirds of incarcerated women were released to the community.
In partnership with the Arizona Department of Corrections, A Place for Hannah identifies women for a program that helps them “transition to a safe space in the community to embrace new beginnings, support one another and collectively strive for personal growth.”
A Place for Hannah also partners with educational programs in local high schools to help young people understand their own identity and their place in the community. Youth participate in philanthropic events with APFH such as clothing and hygiene drives that assist women and juveniles released from prison.
Who Is Hannah?
Hannah tragically lost her life in an accident that led to a 17-year-old female’s imprisonment and a lifetime reminder that none of us are immune to making life alternating mistakes.
“We all have a story, a past that may bear scars, and a future that holds the potential for healing and transformation,” organizers said.
As such, A Place for Hannah, a nonprofit organization, is a testament to the power of community and the belief that no matter where we've been, or what we've done, we all have the capacity to rewrite our narratives, make amends, and create a brighter future.
Reentry and Healing
According to the National Institute of Justice, almost 2 million women are released from prison or jail in the United States annually. The research about women reentering their communities following prison underscores the unique challenges they face. These challenges are often left unaddressed or supported by programming during their confinement.
A Place for Hannah begins the introductory process with incarcerated women and juveniles by making initial connections through events that staff and volunteers sponsor inside the walls such as:
- Mommy and Me Christmas Event - annual Dec
- Locks for Love- quarterly
- Mental Health Classes with licensed therapists - 12 week class- twice annually-sequel classes during year
- Pathways program - a yearlong prerelease program designed to support in reintegration and discharge planning
- Collaborative Community events - as needed
“Female-specific programming that incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy, mutual or peer support, or all-female group sessions is recommended for women experiencing reentry,” organizers stated.
A Place For Hannah facilitates reintegration into the community by offering a holistic approach that includes assistance in securing safe housing, material resources, and emotional support.
To address the impact of traumatic experiences and to help the women overcome resulting behaviors, they are connected to group therapy, intensive individual therapy, case management, and other pertinent services when available and needed.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization working to provide a stable and supportive environment for women, A Place for Hannah actively seeks monetary donations to help sustain its work with women in prison and following release.
For information on the upcoming Poker Run and Rodeo, contact Kaylyn Kelly at 623-882-6535.
