News & Insights from Inside

The Quiet Work is Bearing Fruit

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For years now, our graduates have quietly stepped into some of the hardest moments behind prison walls—not because they were asked to, but because they were called to.

They’ve helped de-escalate tensions.
They’ve counseled peers through grief, anger, and addiction.
They’ve listened—really listened—when someone was on the edge of despair.
They’ve been present, prayerful, and grounded in hope.

All of this, unofficially. Often unseen.

But now, something is shifting. A prison unit is being reimagined with a new vision for healing and restoration. And within that vision, leaders are beginning to consider what it would look like to formally recognize and empower trusted peer leaders to help cultivate peace, accountability, and emotional health inside the facility.

And our graduates?
They’re already doing the work.

Each of them has completed a four-year degree in Biblical Studies and Psychology, equipping them to serve as relational guides, mentors, and trained lay counselors. They’ve been living out their formation in quiet conversations, moments of crisis, and consistent acts of compassion—often behind the scenes, but always with purpose.

Now, for the first time, their role may become official.
They may be hired into positions that reflect what they’ve already been faithfully doing: walking alongside others, speaking into brokenness, and offering a steady, gospel-centered presence. This is restoration in action: men once defined by their worst moment, now being entrusted to lead others toward healing.And this is the impact of your support.

Not just providing education—but cultivating peacemakers.
Not just changing lives—but changing the atmosphere.

Thank you for walking with us on this  path. You’ve helped make moments like this possible.
With deep gratitude,

Andrew Murphy
Executive Director
Wisconsin Inmate Education Association

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Whether it’s the launch of a new cohort or the graduation of a transformed leader, your support creates the moments that fill this news page. Change doesn’t just happen. It starts with you.
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