A Day of Joy for Incarcerated Moms

May 31st marked the annual Mother Teen Day Retreat at the Swannanoa Women's Correctional Facility, a deeply meaningful event orchestrated by a coalition of dedicated faith communities, including my own. This retreat isn't just another day; it's a beacon of hope anticipated throughout the year by the incarcerated mothers, representing their only annual opportunity to connect, face-to-face, with their children.

While the stark reality of the other 364 days weighs heavily – the separation, the missed moments – this single day is undeniably filled with incredible joy. As a volunteer for the past three years, I've witnessed firsthand the profound impact of this gathering. It struck me that despite its significance, this annual retreat hasn't received any public acknowledgment, unlike a similar heartwarming event held in Maui. While restrictions understandably prevent photographing the inmates and using electronic devices during the retreat, there are no limitations on sharing the experience and the pre-arrival preparations. Thankfully, a photographer captures precious family moments each year, and we even had a group photo to commemorate the day.

Inspired by the success and impact of this retreat, I wanted to share the basic structure, hoping it might serve as a model for other communities seeking to create similar connections. Our sanctuary was transformed into a welcoming space. A circle of chairs facilitated group activities, while comfortable furnishings, generously loaned by the community, created cozy lounge areas where families could simply relax and enjoy each other's company. Our dining area buzzed with the quiet concentration of puzzles and the friendly competition of board games. Outside, the energy extended to a disc golf course and a volleyball net.

A particularly memorable moment was the teens-versus-mom inmates volleyball game. When the ball soared over the fence and into the neighbor's yard, a collective look of humorous resignation washed over the mothers' faces – a silent agreement that retrieving the ball wasn't worth risking further confinement for trespassing!

The day offered simple yet cherished pleasures: pizza and salad for lunch, followed by the sweet aroma of families baking cookies and rice crispy treats. Dinner was a build-your-own taco bar, a fun and interactive way to end the day. More than just shared meals and activities, the Mother Teen Day Retreat fostered the creation of forever memories for both the families and the volunteers.

Bonus: The walls of our space are adorned with thought-provoking art prints from thenakedpastor, each piece beautifully highlighting the most compassionate and inclusive aspects of Christianity. These resonated deeply with the spirit of the day, emphasizing connection, love, and hope in a place where it's needed most.**