Team Leader – Lane Murray 

I learned of Women’s Storybook Project back at the beginning in 2003 when our founder and former Executive Director, Judith Dullnig at the time came to speak at my temple, Temple Beth Shalom. It really got me interested in being a volunteer after hearing how mothers would be connecting to their children by recording a book and hearing their voice. But going into women’s prisons to do this program piqued an interest in me knowing that this would give these women behind bars a sense of purpose and involvement in their children’s lives and how important the connection would be in helping these women restore their roles as parents from a distance. Just hearing the mother’s voice makes a whole lot of difference. 

 
Just hearing these women tell their stories about their children and how they appreciate us coming makes me feel so passionate about this program. They are so thankful that they can connect to their child through the sound of their voice. It’s very comforting for them knowing that they can just be themselves with us and not be judged upon. It brings me so much empathy and love. 

 
And now being a new team leader has given me a more profound impact both personally and professionally. Seeing the strength and resilience that these women show gives me great joy. These stories of mothers reading to their children from behind bars is so deeply moving to hear that it inspires me every time that I go and want me to continue being a part of Women’s Storybook Project.