Let’s Go F.O.R.W.A.R.D, Not Backward
Start writing a post
Lifestyle

Let’s Go F.O.R.W.A.R.D, Not Backward

The program that gives cats and inmates a chance

30
Let’s Go F.O.R.W.A.R.D, Not Backward
Every Pixel

Recently, I was looking into non-profit organizations that pair shelter animals with inmates. With research, I came across a program called FORWARD. This stands for Felines and Offenders Rehabilitation with Affection, Reformation, and Dedication. The goal of this organization is to give felines more freedom while they live in the Pendleton Correctional Facility and provide a loving and nurturing animal for the prisoners.

Studies with these type of programs definelty come out with positive results. The cats are a constant in the livens of the inmates that allows them to take their minds off of the current situation they are in. The pets can also help them find their love and compassion again by caring for something other than just theirselves.

FORWARD gives opportunity for adoption, as well. The prisoner’s families have the option to adopt the cat that their incarcerated loved one cared for during the program. This gives them a sort of connection of family and the person being present sense they can’t see them as often and spend time with them freely. The program can represent progress made by the inmates to both their families and the facility. The prison guards and staff also have the opportunity to adopt one of the felines if they fall in love with them while they are there.

“I’ve had offenders tell me when they got an animal, it was the first time they can remember they were allowing themselves to care about something, to love something. That’s a pretty powerful statement,” Maleah Stringer from the Animal Protection League relays the impacts FORWARD visibly has on those involved.

Programs like these are so important. It is so much harder for someone to reform when they don’t have the right mindset. It is extremely difficult to get in this head space when someone doesn’t feel loved or worth someone’s time. Sometimes all it takes is a furry friend to reintroduce affection and care into someone’s life. If you are driving and someone flags you down and says they’re lost, you’d give them directions, right? Well being lost in life isn’t much different. In order to find your way, you need to be put on the right path and given the resources to do so.

I think there would be positive results if there was a program similar to this that placed people that have escaped from abusive situations with animals from abusive situations. This way they can help each other heal and grow.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
the beatles
Wikipedia Commons

For as long as I can remember, I have been listening to The Beatles. Every year, my mom would appropriately blast “Birthday” on anyone’s birthday. I knew all of the words to “Back In The U.S.S.R” by the time I was 5 (Even though I had no idea what or where the U.S.S.R was). I grew up with John, Paul, George, and Ringo instead Justin, JC, Joey, Chris and Lance (I had to google N*SYNC to remember their names). The highlight of my short life was Paul McCartney in concert twice. I’m not someone to “fangirl” but those days I fangirled hard. The music of The Beatles has gotten me through everything. Their songs have brought me more joy, peace, and comfort. I can listen to them in any situation and find what I need. Here are the best lyrics from The Beatles for every and any occasion.

Keep Reading...Show less
Being Invisible The Best Super Power

The best superpower ever? Being invisible of course. Imagine just being able to go from seen to unseen on a dime. Who wouldn't want to have the opportunity to be invisible? Superman and Batman have nothing on being invisible with their superhero abilities. Here are some things that you could do while being invisible, because being invisible can benefit your social life too.

Keep Reading...Show less
houses under green sky
Photo by Alev Takil on Unsplash

Small towns certainly have their pros and cons. Many people who grow up in small towns find themselves counting the days until they get to escape their roots and plant new ones in bigger, "better" places. And that's fine. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought those same thoughts before too. We all have, but they say it's important to remember where you came from. When I think about where I come from, I can't help having an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my roots. Being from a small town has taught me so many important lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Keep Reading...Show less
​a woman sitting at a table having a coffee
nappy.co

I can't say "thank you" enough to express how grateful I am for you coming into my life. You have made such a huge impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without you and I know that you will keep inspiring me to become an even better version of myself.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

99655
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments