Emmanuel experienced the benefits of Reading Between the Lines firsthand. The program had a very positive effect on daily life at Cook County Jail, as it led to positive changes in day-to-day interactions. The critical thinking and communication skills participants acquired led to peaceful resolutions of simple disputes. Emmanual and the other Peer Facilitators also benefitted from their leadership roles, allowing them the opportunity to sharpen their leadership skills, giving them a greater sense of purpose. RBL gave Emmanuel the opportunity to listen, think, and communicate with confidence—skills to aid in daily life inside and outside of incarceration. He eventually became a Peer Facilitator while housed at Cook County Jail and successfully led a number of sessions for RBL prior to his release in April 2023.

After his release, Emmanuel continued his positive trajectory and focused on career development. With the help of RBL, he developed a resume, filled out FAFSA applications for community college, and connected with a job readiness program. He is currently a student at Morton College in Cicero, IL, where he is seeking a paralegal certification--and even started a chess club! The leadership skills he gained from his time with RBL are on full display. He gives his time to those still incarcerated at Cook County Jail by offering them interpretation services, helping them understand legal processes and procedures, scheduling calls with attorneys, and gathering their education transcripts and certificates. RBL also hopes to have Emmanuel continue to lead RBL sessions at their partner facilities. He has also partnered with the Cook County Public Defender Office, ConTextos, and Zealous to create and co-facilitate the Public Defender Training Curriculum.

” The skills we acquired through Reading Between the Lines had a positive impact on our daily lives. Gradually, those of us involved in the program began to exhibit more positive behavior, which was evident when addressing common jailhouse disputes, such as conflicts over phone usage, microwave access, television, and other minor issues… Clearly, Reading Between the Lines helped us analyze conflicts, make better decisions, and reach improved conclusions.”

Emmanuel Garcia’ story is one of success, and a testament to the power of providing positive opportunities for those currently or formerly incarcerated. “The RBL curriculum is designed to facilitate space where people can engage in discussion, share thoughts, ideas, and opinions without fear, ridicule, or judgement. We are so proud of Emmanuel and all that he has been able to accomplish since coming home. In his first six months, Emmanuel was able to land a contract job with RBL, enroll in a local community college and rebuild his community of family and friends. We hope his story serves as a roadmap to help guide others as they transition home,” said Executive Director Augie Torres.

Emmanuel hopes Reading Between the Lines can play a part in other success stories: “I wish this program was available to everyone at the jail because it will give those who are seeking a change in their lives the tools they need to analyze their lives and make better decisions. I am sure that if it helped me and my classmates, it can help others on their journey.”