Constellations of Change: Our 2024 Journey at The STAR Project

Scott’s journey with The STAR Project began in August 2022, following his release from Washington State Penitentiary. Around the same time, Nadine, a community member, was looking to donate her late brother's bedroom set. Through a connection with former board member and long time STAR supporter Mike Howell, Nadine's generous donation found its way to Scott and his son Cameron.

What started as a simple act of kindness blossomed into a beautiful friendship. Scott and Cameron have become a constant presence in Nadine's life, always ready to lend a hand or share a conversation. Nadine speaks highly of both, particularly noting Cameron's character: "If all boys were like him, there would be no need for prisons." She credits Scott's dedication as a father for raising such a wonderful young man.

Scott's journey exemplifies the transformative power of support and second chances. He's had some ups and downs, but has built a life he enjoys, developing deep community roots and becoming a devoted and proud grandfather. Scott graduated from Walla Walla Community College, mentors other men recently released from incarceration, and in December 2024 moved out of his STAR transitional apartment into permanent housing! He continues to add to his constellation of connections, achieving significant milestones in his journey of personal growth and education, and Nadine is often one of the first people he celebrates with – Scott has loved getting to see Nadine hold his grandbabies.

Scott

Inspired by the positive changes she's witnessed, Nadine has become a monthly donor to The STAR Project. Her ongoing support helps us continue our vital work in the community.

This story of connection and growth is just one of many that have unfolded this year. In 2024, we expected to see growth of approximately 25% in overall participants served – in actuality, we welcomed more than 160 new justice-impacted individuals into our programs (a 57% increase over 2023), each with their own unique path. Our housing program has made significant strides, including opening a new rapid reentry group home, securing safe and stable housing for 61 individuals and their families, a 27% increase from last year. Secure housing is critical, allowing our participants to focus on their personal growth and their reintegration in the community.

2024 saw STAR launch inclusive recovery programming, the cornerstone of which is a Wednesday evening meeting open to the community. STAR Recovery on Wednesdays is a SMART Recovery based program, focused on expanding our knowledge of how our brains deal with trauma. Beginning with only 2 regular attendees, we ended the year with over 30 individuals attending at least two Wednesdays per month. STAR also developed and soft launched an innovative financial literacy educational program that will be delivered both inside our state’s prisons and in communities across the state, allowing communities of families impacted by incarceration to increase their financial knowledge in unison.

The STAR Project employment and education initiatives have also seen success. Through partnerships with local businesses and employment organizations, we've helped participants find meaningful employment. Our case managers have helped many participants begin to achieve their educational goals, often finalizing high school requirements or completing their GED, entering into Associates degree and certificate programs. The community's willingness to embrace second chances has been inspiring, however we’ve faced challenges too, particularly in securing long-term employment for some participants due to ongoing economic uncertainties.

We've had to adapt quickly, adjusting our approach to provide the most effective support possible for our participants as they forge ahead. As we welcome 2025, we're excited about new initiatives, including a youth program and expanded housing options. In order to continue our existing programs while expanding our reach and impact, we need your help.

Your support is crucial in maintaining and growing our programs. Consider joining Nadine in becoming a monthly donor. Small, regular contributions make a significant difference in someone's life. For the cost of a weekly coffee, $20 per month, you could provide a participant with the essentials they need to settle into safe housing. A set of new linens and towels, a few kitchen basics and other essentials make a justice-impacted member of our community feel welcome in their new home. $60 per month covers the cost of our Wednesday recovery meetings, helping more individuals in our community maintain their sobriety, heal from trauma, and create a life they don’t want to escape from.

To our current supporters – volunteers, board members, donors, and community partners – thank you. Your dedication and belief in second chances have been the driving force behind the successes of 2024.

And to our participants – past, present, and future – you are the heart of The STAR Project. Your courage, determination, and growth inspire us every day.

As we look to the future, I invite you to deepen your relationship with The STAR Project. Offer your expertise and lead a Saturday community building event. Volunteer with us inside Washington State Penitentiary or Coyote Ridge Correctional Center. Mentor a young parent recently reunited with their child. Help introduce our team to your network and expand access to jobs for our participants. Whatever your capacity, we would love to talk with you more about getting involved. Your continued support will help us assist more individuals like Scott in working towards a brighter future, creating lasting positive change in our community.

Will you join us in strengthening these vital connections? Become a monthly donor today and help us keep hope alive for those who need it most.

With gratitude and optimism for the year ahead,

Elizabeth “Liz” Rice

Interim Executive Director

The STAR Project

P.S. Remember, every contribution matters. Your monthly donation, no matter the size, can be the support that helps someone find their way to a better life.