Southeast Technical Criminal Justice students Amanda Davis and Lydia Flanagan lead an art session with Wabasha County Jail inmates.
“No time for crime”—it’s a notion that motivated Southeast Technical Criminal Justice students Lydia Flanagan and Amanda Davis to volunteer at the Wabasha County jail. Together, the duo leads “Creative Minds with Lydia and Amanda,” an activity session where inmates create handmade gifts for their loved ones with donated art supplies.
Lydia and Amanda’s idea to organize an art supplies drive and volunteer at the county jail grew out of a panel discussion between inmates and Criminal Justice students. “Several students went inside the jail and joined inmates for a question and answer session,” explains Criminal Justice instructor Greg Cady. “Our seating arrangement consisted of a circle of inmates and students sitting side-by-side in a secure setting. It was a very powerful learning opportunity.”
“That experience will stick with me because we got to hear about the inmates’ personal lives and different contributing factors that might have led them there,” says Lydia, who hopes to become a correctional officer and possibly earn a certification in substance abuse.
For Amanda, who has her sights set on working with juveniles, visiting with inmates had a similar impact. “Meeting with the inmates taught me so much. Most important was that I am pursuing the right career. It just feels like the right fit.”
Both Lydia and Amanda cite the opportunity to make a difference in society and help people make better choices as motivation for choosing the criminal justice career field. Through their volunteer experience, they’re learning that making a difference can come in small and unexpected ways.
“The art activities give inmates a diversion from staring at their cells all day,” says Lydia. “I’ve had tremendous feedback and they are extremely appreciative—not only the inmates, but the jailers as well. It also allows the family to receive a personal card from their loved one.”
“They were all very appreciative that we held the art sessions and that we are taking time out of our lives to do this,” adds Amanda.