“It doesn’t feel normal to trust someone else,” David said, “but you have to try something different. When you are involved in crime, the people in your life are only interested in money and drugs, or they’re trying to arrest you. You try to care about people, but you know they might be in a position to screw you over.”
“It takes the joy out of life.”
“I don’t have to worry about that with NOLA,” he continued. “Their agenda is in the open. They want to help you in whatever way you need it.”
In No One Leaves Alone (NOLA), former prisoners can access mentorship, accountability, and practical support through a circle of volunteers and a Case Manager. NOLA focuses on five key areas: housing, health, education, employment, and relationships. David joined at the beginning of October.
After 29 years in federal institutions (“I’ve been to them all: Prince Albert, Stony Mountain, Bowden, Kent”) plus time at provincial prisons and juvenile detention centres, David now sees his past through a lens of humility. “I was in the business of crime: running chop shops, stealing trucks, breaking in to houses.”
“I’m a locksmith, so I could get into any place,” he added, with a dash of irony. “My father taught me well.”
When David was a child, his father was incarcerated, so David grew up in foster homes, where he experienced trauma and abuse.
“I never let any of it win,” he said. “I fought back. Always. But always in the wrong way: acting out, stealing. None of it was ever positive.”
Through NOLA, David has accessed groceries and received help filling out government paperwork and organizing visits to the bank or doctor. His Case Manager, Allyson, also connected him with a counsellor. David has PTSD and anxiety, and hopes his counselling sessions will help him find healing.
“I’ve been to counselling before,” David said, “but this time I’m doing it on my own and not because I’m ordered to.”
Strength in a Circle
David is quick to acknowledge the benefits of his NOLA circle: “They’re very supportive,” he said. “I can ask them any question and I know they will give me real answers.”
“David’s circle is strong,” said Allyson. “Merv helps with finances and taxes. Garrie shares his knowledge about diet and nutrition, and Andrew is there to lend an ear.”
“Some people might think the things I need help with are ridiculous and easy,” David said. “If NOLA didn’t take the time, I’d be way farther back than I am. Now my life is moving forward.”
“I regret I wasn’t able to experience the things I have with them earlier in my life.”
“David is vulnerable and open,” Allyson said. “We’re all moved by that. He’s got so much potential.”
In addition to his NOLA circle, David has support from his brother and his former partner, who lives out of town. “When we’re together, we’re together. When we’re apart, we’re lonely.”
While the NOLA circle is currently working with David on his health and finances, they hope they can support him on reconnecting with other members of his family.
“He’s a gentle person,” Andrew said. “He has a lot to offer his family.”
Due to the ongoing pandemic, David’s NOLA circle is currently unable to meet in person. Still, David finds humour in the restrictions: “In my old life, you’d get an extra year for the mask. Now you gotta have one. It’s a different world now. You’re armed with hand sanitizer, and you worry that the cops could pull you over and sneeze on you.”
The House Guest
Max has a slight build and button ears. His inky black coat is splashed with white, like someone spilled milk down his chest. A pit bull–lab cross, Max is still young, about a year old, and he’s been staying with David.
I’ve always loved animals,” David said. “I want him to be in a place where he’s loved. I want to protect him and provide for him.”
While David is caring for Max on a only temporary basis, he’s enjoying his company.
“When I got him, he was constantly hungry. Now he’s shining and healthy—and happy.” David said. “I’m going to do my best with him. So far he’s doing so good.”
David takes him for walks and to the dog park. He’s also teaching him basic commands, sit and stay, for example.
“You try and get your own life together and you wonder if you have enough energy for a dog.” David said. “But I can show him a better life. I have a little bit to give to someone else. It’s a nice feeling.”
In some ways, David and Max are on similar journeys. They are both looking for someone to trust.
“You gotta trust and ask for help,” David said. “That’s the thing about criminals, they don’t know how to do that, to lower their pride and humble themselves. If you do, you get rewarded. If you don’t, you get nothing. It’s a lesson that’s hard to learn. It was for me.”
The practical support and encouragement offered through NOLA and our other programs can help people build trust in others and find their place in the community. This Giving Tuesday, please take a chance on us—make a donation and help us expand our programs and engage more people who are ready to walk down a path toward healing and renewal.
“It’s one of the first times in my life I’ve been this focused on wanting things to go well,” David said. “Before I was always hesitant or had another agenda. Now I’m free and clear. Now it’s about being a part of a community.”
