by Arleen Dugmore
My name is Arleen Dugmore, and after being incarcerated for 25 years, I faced the overwhelming challenge of rebuilding my life and finding my place in a world that had changed so much.
When I was released, I spent 6 months in transitional housing as part of my reentry. I was afraid of my new surroundings because everything felt foreign. After those 6 months, I moved in with my daughter. I didn’t have a job, and I began to feel like a burden because I couldn’t contribute financially. I struggled with feeling like I didn’t fit in.
Then my friend Sophaon referred me to Willing 2 Move Forward. That’s when I met Carolyn, Lori, Michelle, and Elysia. From the moment I walked through the door, they welcomed me with the biggest hugs. I felt safe. More importantly, I felt that I could trust them to help me find my way.
They supported me in so many ways-helping me with rental assistance, building my resume, preparing me for interviews, connecting me with resources, and encouraging me when I felt like giving up. Their compassion and consistency helped me believe in myself again. They reminded me that I had value and that I was worthy of a future.
With Willing 2 Move Forward’s rental assistance, I no longer felt like I was a burden because I was able to contribute to my household. That support gave me the stability and confidence to focus on my goals. I was able to find full-time employment, buy a car, and become financially responsible for myself.
Today I am independent, working full-time, and building the future I once could only hope for. Willing 2 Move Forward didn’t just help me reintegrate into society-they helped me rediscover myself. I met amazing women who genuinely cared about me, supported, me believed in me, and never gave up on me. Along the way, I gained not only the tools to rebuild my life, but beautiful friendships that I will always cherish.
I am forever thankful and grateful to Willing 2 Move Forward, Carolyn, Lori, Michelle, Elysia, and everyone who believed in me when I was still learning to believe in myself.
My story is one of resilience, second chances, hope, and transformation. I am proud of how far I’ve come, and I’m excited for the future I’m creating. Thank you Willing 2 Move Forward for being on this journey with me.