Talk To Me series
This series consists of three classes of 15 new members each semester led by the three founders. These classes attract and serve three different groups of inmates.
- Talk To Me - Speaking teaches public speaking skills.
- Talk To Me - Circle focuses on writing and group dynamics.
- Talk To Me - Movement encourages classmates to embody their stories through creative self-expression. All class members track their life experiences on a graph and learn to journal about their feelings around sharing their stories with others.
Movement (Level 1)
Some of the class members are chosen to share their stories at graduation with an audience from the free world. Truth Be Told facilitators present a certificate of completion and an inspiring book to each graduate. Members of the audience share how hearing these stories impacted them. The ceremony concludes like each class - with everyone in a circle, holding hands and saying the Lord's Prayer.
Discovery (Level 2)
Having developed a deeper sense of trust, graduates shift their focus from the past to the present, engaging in writing, impromptu speaking and creative play to increase their discovery and understanding of themselves, others, and the world outside. They continue to improve their communication skills and deepen the network of support they began developing in the Talk To Me classes.
This class also concludes with a graduation ceremony and presentation of certificates of completion. Class members make a short presentation to their peers of the creativity they've discovered in themselves during the course.
Mentors (Level 3)
Graduates of the Discovery classes may become mentors for the next Talk To Me series. They are expected to demonstrate greater maturity and commitment as they shift their focus to supporting others.