A New Day: Learning, Trust, and Preparing for What Comes Next

Programs for women at Calgary Young Offenders Centre and Adult Female Annex

Story by FESA Facilitators Del, Dustin and Russell

Our work with the prison system began at the Men’s Remand Centre in Calgary, where we were part of a life skills program that helped participants prepare for release. Since then, we’ve expanded to the Women’s Remand Centre, where we’ve been facilitating programs since 2023.

We work from a simple belief: everyone deserves a second chance. Each week, we offer a series of programs designed and adapted specifically for the women in custody—many of whom have faced cycles of addiction, abuse, and violence. Our four key programs include Healthy Relationships, Parenting After Violence, Literacy and Parenting Skills, and Financial Literacy. Together, they help women build the confidence and skills they need to move forward.

At the heart of our work is trust. We know that meaningful learning only happens in a space where people feel safe, respected, and heard. We begin each session by creating that space—reminding participants that they have the right to pass if they’re not ready to share and inviting them to tell us what helps them feel safe. Small but intentional gestures, like learning names quickly, listening more than speaking, and showing a bit of humour, go a long way in breaking down barriers.

The conversations that follow are honest and human. We share experiences about parenting, finances, relationships, and the challenges of rebuilding after trauma. This helps the women see that we are all learners together and that change is possible. It’s a “community of care” approach that encourages openness, self-reflection, and growth.

Much of our focus is on preparing for “Day One”—the first day of release. Many participants share worries about budgeting on a limited income, finding stable housing, reconnecting with their children, or managing stress without falling back on unhealthy coping habits. Our sessions are hands-on and practical, giving participants real tools for communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution. We spend time exploring “I” messages, cooperation, anger management, and financial basics like budgeting and rebuilding credit.

“I finally understand what's in my control and what isn't.”

- Participant

We also adapt each program to fit the realities of prison life. Sessions are co-created with staff and participants to make sure the topics are timely and relevant—whether that means focusing on parenting strategies, stress management, or building healthy boundaries. Every group is different, and that flexibility helps ensure the women get what they need most in the moment.

Interest in these programs continues to grow, especially in Healthy Relationships, which has seen more participants each session. We are also working closely with the new Program Coordinator at the Centre to further strengthen our curriculum and integrate new materials that build successful skills for release.

Facilitating these programs isn’t easy. It requires compassion, patience, and resilience. We hear difficult stories, and we see firsthand how trauma shapes lives. But we also see courage, humour, and hope. Many of these women never intended to take the paths that led them here. Their stories remind us that people can change when given the right tools and the chance to be heard.

We believe everyone deserves that chance. And our greatest hope is that the skills these women gain inside the classroom help them make the most of their second chance once they step outside its walls.

“Teaching at the Women’s Remand Centre is deeply rewarding — it’s an opportunity to empower women with knowledge, spark self-confidence, and witness the resilience and potential that can emerge when someone is given a chance to learn and grow.”

- Russell Stratton, FESA Facilitator

“The boundaries I have learned to put in place have been used to help me remain in sobriety when released and have helped me continue growing stronger each day.”

- Participant

“This wasn’t a location I initially considered working in, but decided to give it a go. It has for me been the most rewarding and fulfilling facilitation role I have undertaken. Working with people who clearly need our programs and see them develop and learn has been great. It has helped me to understand different backgrounds and perspectives and know we can really make a difference. I can truly say I have gained as much as the ladies.”

- Del Edwards, FESA Facilitator

“I am very grateful to have the opportunity and change the adversity of being incarcerated into an opportunity to be better, happier, and healthier.”

- Participant

“I am so impressed with the resiliency and growth that these ladies demonstrate. They come from hardships and adversity that most people can’t fathom and are accountable for the decisions they made. They are dedicated to self growth and taking the baby steps necessary to turn their lives and their childrens around for the better. I am proud of the work our team does with them, to be a small part in their journey towards a better life, and the fun and laughs we all have doing it!”

- Dustin Browne, FESA Facilitator