𝗪𝗦𝗣 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁: Emily Arledge

I heard about the Women’s Storybook Project through the Junior League of Austin. Ever since reading Just Mercy by Brian Stevenson years ago, I have felt drawn to the message of offering compassion and providing rehabilitation for incarcerated individuals. Paired with my own love of reading, WSP allowed me to merge these two interests into a single volunteering opportunity. 

How has being part of WSP influenced your perspective on incarceration, motherhood, or connection? 

“I have absolutely loved volunteering in the office. I have been surprised by and grateful for the connection that I feel to the mothers even without visiting the prisons. The mothers write beautiful notes to their children and draw fun pictures on the package envelopes that we send out. One of the most meaningful to me was a mother who drew a calendar on her child’s envelope indicating how many months were left until she was able to come home. It gave me faith that the work we do provides hope and connection for both the mothers and their children..”

Please help us thank Emily for her continued support.