Nebraska Women in STEM talked to Persevere about their commitment to providing technology training to women in prison.
“Prison and Persevere saved my life. They’ve given me a lot of hope.”
Diller, Nebraska-native Kendra Barnts graduated from high school with a college scholarship to play softball and she thought about becoming a pharmacist. Life took her in a different direction as she struggled with addiction and the law. For several years, she was in and out of treatment centers before ultimately spending over a year in prison at the Nebraska Correctional Center for Women (NCCW) in York. A few months after entering prison, Kendra learned about the Persevere technology training program.
Persevere is a national nonprofit whose mission is to empower people to change their lives, their families, and their communities through technology education, life skills development, employment, and wraparound services. They began offering the program in Nebraska at NCCW in June 2023. Kendra applied and was selected as one of 14 women in the first cohort.
“They gave me something to look forward to after prison. They gave me life changing skills and encouraged me to sign up for college,” said Kendra.
The program is rigorous, meeting five days a week for 12 months. Over 30 women applied to be in the first cohort, but small classroom space limits how many can be accepted into the program. There are parameters around who can participate, such as giving preference to those with sentences that will conclude close to the time they graduate the program. Participants are trained in Responsive Web Design, JavaScript, Front-End Libraries, Back-End Development, Information Security, and Quality Assurance.
In addition to technology instruction, Persevere provides career readiness preparation, like mock interviews, as well as support in preparing for life after prison. They help with whatever is needed whether it’s transportation, lining up health insurance, or helping them find a job. They also cover life skills like emotional wellness, family reunification, recovery, physical wellness, and financial fitness. Staff continue to work with the women for a full year after graduating and reintegrate back into their communities.
“The women are so determined and resilient. They have a thirst for learning. We really try to empower them and instill hope and confidence so they are able to recognize the incredible potential that lies within themselves,” said Persevere program manager Kris Steed.
As part of their work, Persevere offers opportunities for professional women to engage and support participants. They are looking for women willing to be paired with a participant to mentor them as they graduate from the program. They also look for guest speakers on a broad array of technology or life skill topics.
In addition, they need help finding work for their participants when they return to their communities. Persevere collaborates with employers to enhance their awareness and misconceptions surrounding the hiring individuals who have graduated from their program and to recognize the many advantages associated with employing them. The women are open to internships or contract work, anything to help them get a foot in the door and prove themselves.
“One of our participants just left the correctional facility a few weeks ago and when she went to church they asked her if she could build their website. It’s exciting,” said Kris.
Nine women in the first cohort graduated the program and the second cohort is currently being trained. Kendra is attending college, working, and exploring additional tech opportunities, and was able to attend the Celebrating Women in STEM Luncheon in October.
“I felt like once the felonies hit, life was over, you know? I think that’s how a lot of people feel, and it’s really not. I honestly can’t thank Persevere enough!” said Kendra.
If you are interested in volunteering with Persevere or helping women find work, contact Program Manager Kris Steed at [email protected].