Wings For LIFE International

Absolute fraudulent organization. Horrible mismanagement and misappropriation of funds by Executive Director and Operations Manager. Attorney Generals office investigating.

Wings for Life was incredibly helpful in getting me back on my feet after jail. They not only assisted me in finding a job but also worked with me on improving my resume. Their team took the time to understand my strengths and helped me present them in a way that made a real difference in my job search. The support and guidance they provided boosted my confidence and opened doors I wouldn’t have found on my own. Wings for Life made the transition back into the workforce so much easier for me.

Wings for Life played a huge role in helping me rebuild my life after I was in jail for a DWI. Their focus on life skills was a game changer for me, providing practical tools that helped me make better decisions and stay on track. The support group on Mondays was especially impactful—it was a safe space where I connected with others going through similar struggles. The encouragement and guidance I received each week really helped me stay focused on my goals and maintain a positive outlook. Wings for Life was a key part of my journey toward personal growth and stability.

Wings for Life was a lifeline for me after I got out of jail. They helped me secure a job and find a place to stay, which was critical in getting back on my feet. The support I received made me feel like I had a second chance. The staff and volunteers were incredibly understanding and guided me through every step of rebuilding my life. Without their help, finding stability would have been much harder. Wings for Life truly gave me the tools and encouragement I needed to move forward in a positive direction.

Wings for Life International is an exceptional organization that makes a real impact on individuals and families affected by incarceration. Their programs provide crucial support, focusing on rehabilitation, reentry, and personal development. Through workshops, mentoring, and community engagement, they create a welcoming environment that fosters hope and positive change. The dedication of the staff and volunteers is evident in everything they do, from helping participants build life skills to offering emotional and practical support. Wings for Life truly changes lives and strengthens communities, offering a second chance to those who need it most.

Wings for Life changed my life in ways I never imagined. Before finding them, i was lost, struggling to find direction and purpose. I had made mistakes, and it felt like my past would define me forever. But then i walked through the doors at Wings for Life, and everything begin to change.
The first thing I noticed was the sense of community. I wasn't alone anymore; I was surrounded by people who understood my struggles, who had been through similar experiences. The support I found there was like nothing I have ever known before. They believed in me when I didn't believe in myself.
Through the programs the offered, I learned valuable life skills that helped me get back on my feet.
Wings for Life didn't just offer me support-they gave me a family. The connections I made there, the friendships, and the guidance all played a critical role in my journey to become a better version of myself. They taught me no matter where you came from or what you've been through there's always hope for a better tomorrow.

I have been engaged with Wings for Life for many years. I support the mission of the organization and they truly help people. What an awesome place to get the support that you need from loving and caring people. I am proud to say I am part of the Wings for Life family!!!

Wings For Life is an incredible nonprofit organization that truly makes a difference in the lives of those affected by incarceration. Their dedication to supporting individuals and families navigating the challenges of the justice system is nothing short of inspiring.
What sets Wings For Life apart:

Comprehensive support: From educational programs to emotional counseling, they offer a wide range of services tailored to meet the diverse needs of their clients.

Compassionate approach: The staff and volunteers at Wings For Life treat everyone with dignity and respect, creating a judgment-free environment where people can heal and grow.

Proven results: I've witnessed firsthand how their programs have helped reduce recidivism rates and reunite families torn apart by incarceration.

Community focus: By addressing the ripple effects of incarceration on families and communities, Wings For Life is working towards long-term, sustainable change.

Volunteer opportunities: They offer numerous ways for community members to get involved and make a difference, fostering a sense of shared responsibility.

If you're looking for a worthy cause to support or need assistance dealing with the effects of incarceration, I cannot recommend Wings For Life highly enough. Their work is truly transformative, offering hope and practical support to those who need it most.

By supporting Wings For Life, you're not just helping individuals - you're contributing to stronger, more resilient communities. They are proof that with the right support and resources, people can overcome incredible challenges and build brighter futures.

Wings for Life is an organization to help give the formally incarcerated a second chance at a better life. They help by connecting their clients with their needs, such as jobs and housing. They also help their clients by educating them on life skills and substance abuse prevention.

The first time I took my Grandson to see his Dad at Family Day at the Los Lunas Correctional Facility I was so impressed that anyone could make this happen. My Grandson was able to hug his Dad and have pizza with him. All the Dads were able to pay games with their kids and interact together. Families were enjoying one another after long absences from one another. It was amazing for me as a Grandma, to watch as my Son was able to see his Son after a few years of incarceration. This Family Day visit at the prison encouraged my Son to WANT to do well after his release from incarceration and take care of his family. Through this program, where many other Sons and Daughters, Brothers, Sisters, Aunts, Uncles and others who are incarcerated, hope follows with encouragement for a promising and productive future.

I would not be as far as I have if it wasn't for Rebecca C. and Steve D. They are great in case management and peer support activities. Thank you very much!!!!

Wings for LIFE International non-profit is a dynamic organization that is in non-stop motion! This place never lets up and helps families and former inmates rise above and achieve success in New Mexico communities. This is THE non-profit organization in New Mexico and makes a difference every day.

WINGS has always gone above and beyond for our community. Ann is very forthcoming and honest with sharing her story. She works tirelessly and I admire her and her program so much. Thank you Ann, and WINGS!!! Eileen

In many ways Wings provides singular support to families and children with incarcerated parents. These individuals are among the most underserved in our community and for many the agency that cares deeply and provides tangible support. Under the leadership of Ann Edenfield Sweet who understands well the pain and turmoil of families whose relatives are incarcerated, clients identify with her and become part of the effort because she is honest and credible. The resource she has built is exemplary. She has brought a myriad of services to bear on the needs of her clientele, locally, nationally and internationally. She is a model of a parent who has helped herself and family to deal with the sense of loneliness, abandonment and loss that propelled her and her family to reach out to those similarly affected. Her leadership assures shared focus with agency staff and the significant and respectful services they provide. What Wings and its collaboration of resources contribute to our community and other throughout the world is life-preserving and enhancing.

I work as the DWI Coordinator for the Village of Los Lunas/Valencia County (VLL VC) DWI Program. The mission of the VLL VC DWI Program is: ‘Reduce the occurrence of drinking and driving including underage drinking in Valencia County through prevention/education, enforcement, adjudications, sanctions and treatment.’ Another key component of our program is to reduce recidivism and assist clients, families, youth connect to our community in ways that increase their health, safety, and overall wellness. Wings For L.I.F.E.- Life-skills Imparted to Families through Education has been demonstrated to be a national and state Best Practice model whose mission is: ‘Transforming lives to break the generational cycle of incarceration.’ WFL focuses on teaching families stability by addressing safety, well-being, accountability, jobs skills, money management, and parenting. The VLL VC DWI Program shares and supports this mission and the valuable services that WFL provides to fill a well-identified needs within our community and throughout the state. WFL is truly making a difference in so many lives, impacting the health and wellness not only at an individual and family level, but at a community level as well!

Ann Edenfield is an amazing woman. Ann started Wings for Life International over 25 years ago and helps families of people in prison. Not only does she share this knowledge and healing for families in Albuquerque, she also shares this all over the United States of America! She has even shared this information and training world wide!! That is so mind boggling for me to comprehend. How can ONE women from a small town like Albuquerque go world wide? Next month she will be going to Liberia to open yet another center. How can ONE women touch so many lives all around the world? She runs an amazing non profit, and is in it 7 days a week, 24 hours a day, I don't even think she sleeps - how can she and get so much done ?? Please consider donating to this fabulous non profit that touches thousands of lives all around the world.

Our first contact with Wings was last year at a city of Albuquerque sponsored civic plaza art event. My wife, who is an artist, was approached by Ann about a project Wings was interested in for supporting artist. It just went uphill from there. Not only is Wings great in their primary mission of transforming lives to break the generational cycle of incarceration, but they are supportive of the arts and do a great job of keeping those who signed up for emails informed on other events supporting our community....kudos to Wings for Life International and all their volunteers!!

Wings for Life is a beacon of light for people who are incarcerated or who were incarcerated (they are returning citizens), and for their families. People who are invisible to our society and in great need of care and support are lifted up by the wonderful leadership of this organization. So many programs and services are offered, including two weekly meetings offering hope and resources, and a monthly meeting for professionals and volunteers who want to help and empower others. I became involved as a volunteer many years ago when I was the Client Advocate in the homeless services agency, St. Martin's Hospitality Center (now called Hope Works). The positive impact of this one organization is immeasurable and of great value locally and internationally. We are blessed to have the home office here in Albuquerque.

I first joined Wings for Life when I was 88 years old. Ann spoke to our women's group at my church, and I wanted to be a part of it. Since I joined Wings, I have visited every prison in New Mexico. By her example, I learned how to talk with the mothers and grandmothers of the prisoner. More importantly, I learned how to listen. I am now 94, and still feel welcome in her group.

I contribute funds each year to help Wings for Life International with its mission. It reunites incarcerated folk with their families at family "parties", teaches the incarcerated participants new life skills, and helps them find jobs once released. They treat the incarcerated as human beings, just like the rest of us, a true example of how to "love your enemy as yourself." The participants in this program have a very low recidivism rate. This non-profit is worthy of your support.

My late husband and I were with Ann Edenfield way back when she started Monday Night Live get-togethers. Her initiative has been so successful in these many years and helped thousands of people in countless countries start similar programs. Ann's energy, down to earth attitude and love shines through in all aspects of her work and personal life.
Helping incarcerated families certainly isn't high on most people's thoughts when thinking of giving a charitable contribution but the results of her work are endless ~ known as the ripple effect. Thank you Ann and your dedicated team.

Wings for LIFE, Intl. - Embracing the Challenges Ahead in 2023 as Servant Leaders

Many of you who have been involved or attended WFL meetings know that all the life skills we impart through our educational workshops are in resonance with The Search Institute’s “40 Developmental Assets.”
The Assets are individual, family and community qualities that promote positive life experiences for children and teens and are like a compass, based in research, to guide our work

And so, as I look back on 2022, it dawned on me -especially having gone through a 3 year gauntlet called the Pandemic - that we, the Wings Board, the staff, volunteers and partners of Wings also have a set of assets that give meaning to our work, make our strengths productive and underly our development as individuals, as a Board, and as an effective Institution.

The “Assets” that have , and continue to guide us as an organization m, are the qualities of Servant Leadership.

What is a Servant Leader?

The central defin#ion of servant-leadership, as defined by Robert Greenleaf in “The Servant as Leader”, is asfollows:
It begins with the natural feeling that one wants to servefirst. Then conscious choice brings one to aspire to lead. We can see this in the history and evolution of Wings- from the work of our founder and ED, the dedicated Board members and more recently in the staff and volunteers who bring themselves fully to the work.

The difference manifests itself in the care taken by the servant--first to make sure that other people's highest priority needs are being served.

The best test, and difficult to administer, is: do those served grow as persons; do they while being served, become healthier, wiser, freer, more ataonomous, more likely themselves to become servants? And, what is the effect on the least privileged in society; will they benefit, or at least, not be further deprived?

As the 40 Assets contain Internal and External ones, organizations have formal and informal structures. The informal structure of Servant Leadership is about building purpose and challenging with opportunity; judicious use of incentives, astute ordering of priorities and allocating resources where they count the most.

Servant Leadership provides the encouragement and the shelter for venturing and risking the unpopular. It gives support for ethical behavior and creative ways for doing things more effectively. The result is team effort and a network of constructive interpersonal relationships that support the total effort. These informal assets are the “glue” that holds the formal structure of Wings together and makes it function well.
Likewise, the “assets” of Servant Leadership that are found in the leaders themselves include:

. Listening --
• Empathy -.
• Healing --.
• Awareness --.
• Persuasion --.
• Conceptualization --.
• Foresight -- Hindsight and Insight.
• Stewardship --.
• Commitment to the Growth of People --.
• Building Community --

Many of these Servant Leadership traits or assets are already firmly built into our being as an organization. Yet, continuous growth and improvement are required even more given the challenges of the world we live in today.
Suffice to say, the Wings Board members are embarking on a deepening of these assets as competencies and will be engaging in an ongoing and intense retreat period of training, self evaluation in a journey toward Becoming better Servant Leaders. In 2023 with the advent of having a home of our own, expanding hours of service and a growing staff and volunteer corps, we will also begin a process of participatory strategic planning and community development. We invite you to join us in these endeavors, and give us your energy and feedback as we move forward into 2023.

I am blessed to work so closely with this program! Wings for Life helps my participants who are returning citizens, to find a purpose and strive for something MORE! Thank you for everything you do!

WINGS recidivism rate says it all!! The program works because the CEO and Founder's heart is 100% engaged. She's grown this program into something that truly changes lives. It's a mystery to us why every state doesn't adopt this program. If the states can't get onboard because of how the inmates and their families lives are lifted up, and how the prison environments are improved, then the WINGS program's stats and numbers tell the success stories. We've supported this program for years because we can see it's working.

Having worked with Ann at prisons in Ohio, how I wish folks could experience what I saw when little ones would run up and grab their "daddy". You can't begin to imagine watching dads doing crafts, icing cookies, and dressing up as shepherds or angels to enact the Christmas story with their children. So many hearts were touched including mine.

Ann's boundless energy inspires us all. My little bicycle thing is given a huge boost by her unflagging support. I am honored to be a small part of this worthwhile enterprise.

I am a volunteer for Wings for Life International. I have been with this organization for 5 years. Wings for Life ministers to incarcerated individuals and their families, as well as formerly incarcerated people and their families.

I teach the karate program which is designed to help children defend themselves and their loved ones against a physical attack.

Besides this, the program emphasizes community values of honesty, courtesy, respect, discipline, honor, integrity, etc. Statistics show that children of incarcerated parents have a 72% likelihood of being incarcerated themselves at some point. The intent of the program is to reduce this number to zero! This can be accomplished by encouraging students to stay away from gangs or any acquaintances that may introduce the student to smoking, drinking alcohol, drug use, as well as any form of law breaking. With education and confidence, children will make better choices and become better citizens.

Whereas statistics show that former incarcerated individuals reoffend almost at a 90% rate, those who follow the Wings for Life program, especially with their families recidivate at a 4% rate. This is a massive success record! This is done through example and education helping former inmates reintegrate into society and their families.

I am very proud to be a part of this special organization!

Philip Gilbert

I've seen firsthand how WINGS supports, encourages and enables both the families of the incarcerated and returning citizens. There program works on a foundational level to build families and offers vital skill training on a weekly basis. These programs equip anyone impacted by the prison system with strategies to break the cycles of trauma and addiction that entrap families and generations of families. Their family prison days are an absolute marvel to behold. Many of the restriction that apply to visitation are lifted, everyone mingles, sings, plays games and most importantly spends time with loved ones in an open and caring environment. You won't find a more deserving organization.

Wings For LIFE International is helping change the lives of those who are incarcerated, recently incarcerated, and, very importantly, the families they leave behind who suffer greatly through the experience. For almost three decades, Wings has offered critical lifeskills training and education, worked with families to build better futures, and, especially, to help the children of the incarcerated with education and skills that avoid the 73% probability that they, too, could wind up in our prisons. Far too few people in our society think about "What's after prison?" Wings is committed to helping families with answers that create new productive and law-abiding lives.

I enjoy working with Wings and attending the Monday Family events. I see the joy Wings brings to everyone.

Wings is great! They help the families of those who are incarcerated, as well as 'returning citizens' recently released.

My experience with Wings For LIFE International has been nothing short of amazing. When I arrived at Wings, I wasn't exactly sure what I was expecting with the little background that I knew. However, Ann's story on how Wings was started is inspiring. Everyone who works/volunteers for Wings goes above and beyond to make everyone feel welcomed. Every meeting they hold is informative and they don't just focus on one specific topic, they range from how to pre-plan for funerals and making sure to have a will to ethics to sexual harassment in a work place, etc. This nonprofit organization helps family members of the incarcerated, the incarcerated and returning citizens; the best part about that is that they have people who know the experience and who have gone through the process of being incarcerated and being a returning citizen, so they know how to help and are there for support because they care. Thank you Wings For LIFE, for allowing me to volunteer and for the opportunity to work with you all!

I had the opportunity to volunteer at Wings for Life International for the summer of 2022. I have never been part of such a generous, caring, dedicated, and focused group of people. The care dedicated to breaking the cycle of incarceration in communities internationally is inspirational. The support returning citizens and their families are given is powerful.

I had the opportunity to volunteer at Wings for Life International for half a year. I have never been part of such a generous, caring, dedicated, and focused group of people. The care dedicated to breaking the cycle of incarceration in communities internationally is inspirational. The support returning citizens and their families are given is powerful. I am so honored to be part of this organization as they have helped me grow as a social worker in the field and they have expanded my skills to work with more populations in the state of New Mexico. Ann, director and founder of the program, is the most caring person you will ever encounter and she shares her passion for helping others with the agency and the communities Wings for Life International serves.

I was required to complete Student Service Learning hours with a non-profit organization for school. Because I intend to go to law school to practice criminal defense, I felt that Wings would be a great opportunity for me to interact with incarcerated individuals and their families. Anne and the rest of the staff made me feel very welcome.
Wings provides interactive learning workshops for people transitioning back into society and for families and children. I participated in a lot of these workshops and always felt welcome to share my own experiences and feedback for the incarcerated individuals who listened via Zoom. I would highly recommend Wings to anyone who is making the transition back to society, as well as anyone looking for volunteering opportunities. I plan to continue participating in these workshop as I have learned a lot for myself. Thanks Wings!

I had to complete public service hours and called various non-profit organizations to offer my time, but none were as responsive and welcoming as Wings for LIFE International. Ann Edenfeld, the executive director, immediately answered the phone and asked me to come in to the office and get started right away.

When I arrived to the office, I felt a sense of belonging and safety that I did not feel any where in public for a long time. The Wings for LIFE staff and volunteers were extremely friendly and I could feel their good energy radiate on me. Eventually after coming more regularly, I felt very close to everyone and now I consider Wings for LIFE one of my local “safe zones”.

The work done in this organization is one of the most beautiful and sincere I have ever seen. Not only is incarceration an every day growing issue around the world, but it’s also one that affects a person’s entire lifetime, their families’, and society as a whole. Wings for LIFE steps in to close gaps in this matter by directly helping those currently incarcerated, returning citizens, and any of their family members by connecting them to programs, resources, education, and employment in order to ameliorate their situation and quality of life.

With so many individuals caught in this system, and so many of their families suffering, there is a lot to do and thus volunteering is always appreciated. There are many tasks options ranging from basic office work, cleaning, computer work, presentations, videos, to arts & crafts projects. So that made volunteering feel very natural and all the excitement made time fly.

I’m extremely thankful of the time I have spent at Wings for Life International. They have been established for over 20 years, so it’s very certain to say that they are ahead of their time. Volunteering here has been an eye-opening experience, and hopefully one day thanks to organizations like Wings, our society can end the stigma associated with incarceration and we can start to focus on building families stronger, together — instead of profiting from a system that wants so desperately to tear them apart.

Respectfully, Jose Chavira

I have known about Wings For LIFE International for over a year, but have become much more aware and involved with their incredible commitment to those they serve, the oft-shunned, oft-neglected members of our society. Now in their 27th year, they continue to creatively adapt to overcome all barriers to serving, supporting, teaching and leading the incarcerated, released on parole (dubbed 'returning citizens'), and their families with superb programming (now mostly Zoom), donations to those in need, work with juvenile offenders, and support other non-profits in our community. Reaching literally around the world with critical learning modules and other types of support, they are helping change lives and outcomes. I have served on non-profit boards, volunteered, helped many market their organizations, etc., over a number of decades. I would consider Wings For LIFE International one of those very special charities that are doing work few want to 'tackle', and doing it with great compassion, and, great results.

I love this organization. Anne has helped many returning citizens and makes everyone feel welcomed. WFL has impacted many peoples lives. WFL offers life skills classes which are amazing and helpful. Awesome organization !!

I am an intern for Wings For LIFE International. This is such a great organization. They help so many families in the community and offer a great deal of resources. Everyone here works hard and dedicates their time and efforts towards helping others and changing lives for the better. It is an amazing place and working here has been a great experience.

I am an Intern at Wings For LIFE and let me tell you....I have NEVER been a part of a more warm, generous, loving and inspirational group of people. I see the care and dedication they have for breaking the cycle of generational incarceration, and helping these returning citizens and their families bloom to their greatest potential. I am so honored to be a part of this organization and they have helped me see my own potential in working to help others reach for the stars.

As a volunteer and then a part time contractor for Wings, I have seen how the programs and workshops impact and change lives one at a time. The referrals, connections, and services are there for returning citizens and families to benefit from. Everyone involved has a heart for service and fellow citizens. If you or a loved one is impacted by incarceration, please reach out today and take advantage of offerings!

As an intern at Wings, I have gotten a glimpse of all the work, effort and generosity put into running the organization and to providing services. I admire the volunteers and staff at Wings as it is their generosity and dedication that keep Wings going. Additionally, I have never been in a setting with such a warm and strong sense of community. Interning at Wings has impacted my approach to serving others, I hope to make the future clients I work for, feel as accepted as Wings has made me feel.

I have enjoyed working with Wings for the last 6 years as a guest speaker. Knowing there is an organization like Wings For Life that will help communities and build family relationships is an inspiration for me and gives me motivation to do more for others. The KJ Effect

I was a volunteer here at Wings For LIFE International and it's great! It's eye opening to see and learn about a world I barely knew about. And there's a lot to learn because it's not just about incarceration, but about providing a better future for young people. If you can help them, cherish and support young people, you can ultimately prevent a lot of bad situations such as incarceration. And WFL also helps formerly incarcerated people too, so that they can better their lives.
It's overall a great and super helpful nonprofit organization.

I volunteered for Wings for Life and I couldnt believe how amazing they are. The nonprofit itself has such a good mission because I kniw how emssed up the prison industry is. Being able to help with their auction and the results were something I enjoyed. Thank you for the opportunity.

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I have volunteered with this organization since 2009 and have watched it grow and provide
support to families of inmates as well as inmates. I was also able to be a part of one of their mission trips overseas. This organization has grown and has received many awards both locally and nationally. I believe it is made up of many helpful, compassionate, volunteers and staff.

My wife and I learned Of WINGS For Life through a friend telling us about the first ever trip for WINGS into a prison in Denver where we happened to live in the area at that time. We thought it was an interesting model and were curious enough to volunteer so there would be enough civilians present for this event in Colorado. The planning Ann and her team put into the event to bring some hope and joy into the families attending were nothing short of amazing and miraculous! Never have I seen faces transform as I witnessed that day. Here are a sample of the difference WINGS makes in the lives they touch.
Wings For L.I.F.E. is Proud of the Following Facts:
• WFL client’s recidivism rate (return to prison) for 14 years is only 4%. The national recidivism rate is
83%! USDOJ 2018
• 100% of youth for 14 years who attended 10+ times in a calendar year progressed to the next
grade.
• 100% of girls for 14 years who attended 10+ times in a calendar year had NO pregnancies.

The entire United States Judicial System should latch on to the program WINGS provides and incorporate it into the prison system. Then REAL reform and change would occur and our world would truly be a better place. While we can't at this time personally volunteer, we support all we can with our donations to help fund this life changing/ life improving program.

WINGS program's 4% recidivism rate speaks louder than any words I can come up with. That is the lowest by-country rate worldwide. WORLDwide. A quick Google search will bring up those numbers. I've known Ann for years and do some occasional volunteer work for her. When my husband and I choose organizations to contribute funds toward, it's makes all the difference for us to know that the dollars are being spent in a way that produce results. It's the same when we plant a garden. We trust the seeds we plant will produce. We see that fruit flourish with the WINGS program and trust Ann has the highest intent for the families and individuals she works with. Ann has created something that works.

I am doing my internship with Wings For Life International, and it has been an amazing opportunity for me to learn how  this nonprofit organization works. I am astonished by the fact how Wings helps  change the lives of many incarcerated people and returning citizens who otherwise would have been forgotten. Wings has created many events to give these individuals and their families the opportunity to celebrate special moments, and bringing families together. Diana Gomez Pena

Wings For L.I.F.E. is such a wonderful and important organization! The sense of family and the warm and welcoming atmosphere welcomes everyone. This is an organization that is very inclusion, especially for those that have been excluded and need assistance. They offer so many wonderful events that educate and empower those that need it and ensure clients know they are worth having a happy and productive life. Thank you to everyone at Wings!

I would like to say that it has been a pleasure to be a part of this organization and get to see all the wonderful things they have to offer to the community and the WORLD! Wings has given voice to those incarcerated individuals who have been overlooked for many years. This organization provides support and love all around. I recommend everyone to be a part of Wings to learn new skills and be more involved with social justice issues.

I follow the posts of WINGS in order to learn about the many ways that families of prisoners are helped to cope with the many difficulties of incarceration. Ours is too often such a vindictive society that it is refreshing to see a group practice the compassion that religions call for.

I began volunteering at Wings only to be blessed with a job offer. These are the most compassionate people I know, and I am very confident in the change that we are making and optimistic that it will only get better. I don’t think there are many organizations as impactful as this one!

WINGS FOR LIFE. This nonprofit organization is the most amazing program that anyone can join. I found this program when my daughter was incarcerated, an had to raise my 6yr old grandson. He had so much angry an was depressed because he had both parents incarcerated. We have been going now for 4yrs. His angry, and depression decreased, an self-esteem jumped up so high he was on cloud 9. He joined karate an this helped de escalate his angry an depression. He enjoyed going to talk and be with others kids who's parents were incarcerated also. WINGS has taught him manners, how to set a table dinner table, how to communicate and to survive everyday living. Thank you WINGS for changing our lives for the better.

Through the years of searching for organizations that make a measurable impact in society, Wings for Life International is one of the most noted that I have found. The dedication to building the structure of the family and providing the tools to navigate the obstacles that people will face is remarkable. The relentless proactive approach to improve the lives of those facing and uphill challenge is met with involvement in governmental affairs to personal interaction and support. It is a pleasure to work with such a remarkable and dedicated team that seeks to find every avenue to help improve the lives of those it can reach. I am blessed with the opportunity, as the Tutoring Coordinator, to work with the children and parents to build a supportive family where we can rely on each other for support in all aspects of life. I look forward to engaging in future endeavors with Wings for Life International to bring hope and joy to all who seek it.

Michael J. Sylskar

An organization with a lot of energy and a heart to truly assist re-turning citizens re-integrate into their families and communities.

Wings For Life is an amazing, dedicated nonprofit that reaches out to at risk families in our communities to support those who have incarcerated family members. WFL also provides support to children and families of returning citizens. The Monday evening meetings are a great time to have a free family style dinner, get to know new people around the table, and hear an interesting and informative lesson from experts who share their wisdom to help anyone in different areas of their lives. No matter who you are or what you have been through you will be greeted with a smiling face and respect at WFL, and come away with having learned something new.

I am a volunteer for Wings and have been associated for 8 years with this program. Wings is a very well respected program with the NM Corrections Department and has been able to visit all 11 prisons bringing a Family Day party to the prison. Children are able to visit their loved ones. Children of prisoners are up to 72% more likely to become incarcerated themselves.
Wings is an empowerment program that provides life skills, education, training and support for the family members and children. Mary Briggs.

Wings For LIFE is a program has been developed to reach out to families that may be at risk.
Our family style dinners, table discussions, programs, manners, stories, special events, tutoring and crafts are all put together to support individuals and families. We also have special events and community parties where all the children are welcome! Please contact Wings if you would like to become a volunteer. We accept all ages! Yolanda Mattison,
Volunteer Coordinator for Wings.

Great functions within the communities in NM, always reaching out to the less fortunate, and the stories are inspiration to my soul. Your words of wisdom is a motivation .

WFLI is an exceptional community partner! The work they do in helping women find strength through pro-social learning environments is second to none. Ann is an energetic executive director who draws her fuel from her own life experience as well as from changing lives for the better! We are fortunate to have the women in our rehabilitative reeentry center be serviced by Wings every week both in group sessions and in peer mentoring. This organization deserves the title of "great non-profits" since it sets such a tremendous example of service and sacrifice for those entrusted to their care.

Thank you and congratulations! None more deserving!

Emanuel Barr
National Director, Community Outreach
GEO Reentry Services

I have volunteered at numerous non-profits around Albuquerque and each have had an impact on my life in one form or another, none however has had the influence on my life experiance as Wings for Life International. The dedication of the staff and Board are obvious, always steppng up to a challenge. The impact on the families Wings serve is remarkable, the way they respond through continous attendance and particiapation is inspiring. Then there is prison 'Family Days' when the incarcerated have the opportunity to interact with their familes; these events are a demonstartion in the goodness of the human heart. But I think the biggest inspiration I receive from my volunteering with Wings is their CEO. Ann Edenfield-Sweet, the energenic, always moving this organization forward with a dedication that is inclusive, guiding, and energizing all those around her to excell. Wings is exhilarating.

My name is Alice Montoya and I am a student at the Central New Mexico Community College and I chose to do my internship with WINGS because the service they provide is near and dear to my heart. I have had family that have been incarcerated and I know the impact that this brings upon everyone involved. I am grateful for this organization and what they provide to the community. I volunteered at the Monday meetings where I learned so much. They provide a valuable service to those in need. I was privileged to get to know some very amazing people. Ann is one of the most sincere people I have ever met. She truly cares about each and everyone that comes through the doors. The professionalism of the staff and volunteers was a breath of fresh air. You know they are all committed to WINGS by how they treat everyone. Yolanda, the volunteer coordinator was my point of contact and she made my experience with WINGS a pleasant one. She provided helpful direction in completing my volunteer hours. Soraya who works with their social media was one individual that went above and beyond to make me feel welcomed as she did for so many. She is a great asset to the WINGS family. They truly make you feel like family and I won't forget how awesome they are. I look forward to doing my Bachelor's internship with them. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of the WINGS family!

I am a student at The University of New Mexico. I chose WINGS for my internship because I read their description and I was very interested. I mainly work with the children who attend the Monday meetings but I also get to meet great new people each time. My first time at WINGS was amazing and I knew that from there onward that I was really going to like it. I don't know what I was expecting but it was better than what I expected. Every Monday I look forwards to it. I have definitely learned a lot life skills from here and have opened up my mind more. Overall, I am glad I choose WINGS for my internship.

Wings for Life International is an amazing organization I've ever volunteered at. Instantly on my first day there I was welcomed by everyone and felt so loved. My kids love going with me every week. Anne is one of the most generous people to walk on this earth. What she and her organization have done for society is beyond amazing. No matter your situation or back round when your at WFLI you are never judged or treated differently.

“Conducting joyous celebrations of unconditional love that breaks down barriers” Wings For Life International gave me an experience that was exactly that! My name is Christina, and I am a student at CNM where I was taking a Interpersonal Communications class that had each student choose a non profit organization to practice our communication skills. I chose Wings for Life and went every Monday evening right after class. There were nights where I arrived there tired and quiet, and then I left energized and over the moon happy! Singing and laughing on my way home! The community there welcomed me with kindness and acceptance. My time there was truly a great experience and I am grateful.

Working as a volunteer for Wings For Life has been an incredible experience. I was able to do my volunteering through a Service Learning class at Central New Mexico Community College and I am so glad I did! Wings For Life is a program that changes lives and impacts the Albuquerque community in such a beautiful way. During my time at Wings I was able to see the wonderful and welcoming atmosphere of understanding and compassion for those in the program as well as their families. Wings For Life is able to provide these families with resources and life skills to build themselves that they otherwise would not be as easily exposed to. The work done by Wings For Life is incredible and I will absolutely be back to volunteer again.

I like that Wings for L.I.F.E International is very family oriented and it also promotes effective communication skills. It exposes many people to new experiences and I like that I met a few people who want to improve poor resources on the Navajo Nation. Wings has taught me that you have to have the same experiences as others who attend the Monday night events. It has inspired me to get involved with the community so that I can make an effort to make a change in the community. I was introduced to many people who have the same goals as I do and I think that this is a good place to start a network of mentors or other who are willing to collaborate their careers to help different communities.

I volunteered with W.F.L. for my sociology class for C.N.M. I was very excited to participate in this organization after reading about it on their website. I did 3 hours Mondays for 15 hours I did 5 days altogether. You really get the sense of support and belonging when you are here and I like how they really have passion for helping people. I recommend anyone to Volunteer or recommend to someone if they are needed that extra support.

I started at Wings for Life International Organization as a volunteer due to one of my classes at CNM. Wings for Life International has a great community that includes everyone. I really like attending the Monday meetings, there are always topics to discus. I really like how including everyone is and how friendly everyone was.

I began attending Wings for L.I.F.E. Monday events for service learning requirements at CNM as part of my Public Speaking class. The environment is great at these events. Meeting new people, hearing stories of hardship and success, and sharing a meal with new friends is a great way to spend an evening. A good meal and a great time awaits at the Monday night meetings.

I am studying sociology, criminology, and victimology. Wings for L.I.F.E. is an amazing group and the connections I have made along with the information learned has repeatedly surprised me. One could not ask for a more informative social outreach venue that has a real impact on people's lives. Thank you all so much!

Wings For L.I.F.E International is a awesome nonprofit that is helping in reducing recidivism in Liberia. Lots of returning citizens are overwhelmed. We share Christ love by telling bible stories, games and much more. Special thanks to the Executive Director Ann for the opportunity given to Liberia.

I have had the opportunity to intern with WFL from August 2018 -May 2019 and have had a wonderful experience. There are so many opportunities to participate in making a difference & advocating for returning citizens and their families. The mission of WFL to break the generational cycle of incarceration is near and dear to my heart.

Wings For L.I.F.E is a great organization. Love the staff and members. I enjoy the mixers, meeting new people, and going to the prison and bringing families together!

Such wonderful people. A place where people care about you.

My experience at WINGS For Life International was like nothing I've ever done before. This is my first time volunteering for the community and I have truly enjoyed every moment of it. It's a great opportunity to talk to the people involved and they were so generous and open about their stories.

I had an incredible time volunteering at WINGS for LIFE. I learned a lot of skills that will help me as I continue my academic endeavor. I felt welcomed and never felt like a stranger.

Wings For Life International does an excellent job of creating a community of support for returning citizens, their families, and other community members. Their dedication to ending the generational cycle of incarceration and fostering resilience in at-risk youth is inspiring.

Wings for Life was a great non-profit to work with. Their work towards access to families for incarcerated individuals is such a great initiative that isn't being addressed or focused on by many other organizations. Ann is also a great leader with an extensive network and love for others that allows WFL to florish the way it has, and it shows with the amount of giving back from the communities she serves.

Ann is a great human being with great intentions. Wings For Life has a strong network. There is also power in words.

I am a student at the University of North Texas with the organization Alternative Service Break. I have volunteered here for a week and the experiences and opportunities afforded to me have been wonderful. The volunteer work was interesting and challenging, would recommend for people looking to make an impact to those people in great need.

I was a volunteer with the University of North Texas and I was very pleased with time spent with Wings for Life International. Throughout my week at the organization, I attended a Monday night Wings for L.I.F.E. night and was astonished by the community built there. I met a number of returning citizens who spoke about how much Wings for Life has given them a second opportunity, but more importantly, a second hope in life. It was clear to me that even when there were lapses in judgement from Ann, it was no less than obvious that she cares deeply for the people she is serving and puts every effort of hers into making the lives for those incarcerated and their families better.

Over the past couple of months, I have had the opportunity to interact with families and other volunteers at Wings For Life and I can't say enough about this wonderful organization and the resources they offer the community. During my first time in attendance, I was welcomed with open arms! A few speakers that I have been present for offer resources to new job opportunities, parenting skills, financial management, and information on the judicial system. I've had the great honor of witnessing how these types of resources assist individuals and families create a path that they can be be proud! Thank you, Wings! A special thank you to Michelle...

I've been with WFLI as an intern for 6 months. Amazing months. They all became a family for me, very welcoming and supportive. I really enjoyed participating in their Monday night program and meeting new people who were going through some transition in their life and found enough courage to share their stories with us. Getting to know all the clients at Wings' events helped me broaden my perspective, which is absolutely crucial for me as a future social worker. I truly encourage everyone who is interested in macro level social work and community service field to come do your practicum and volunteer at Wings. Ann Edenfield Sweet is a wonderful mentor/instructor and a very caring and dedicated individual who wants to make a change with all her heart. Thank you, Wings!

Wings for Life is an amazing organization that really does care about people. For my first Monday dinner I was nervous, but everyone there is very nice and welcoming. Wings is a great place to go to if you want to change your life or see other people change. Everyone who attends the Monday dinners is working towards a goal, for some its regaining custody of their child or looking for help after being released from prison. Wings for Life isn't going to judge anyone based off of their past. The Wings staff and volunteers are honestly trying to help people improve themselves.
- Emily Marchetti

I cannot begin to explain how wonderful this organization is... Everyone is so inviting and helpful. All they want is to help better peoples lives in any way they can. i love our Monday night community meetings at the church and all the services they provide. They teach classes like parenting or job development, they will help you build resume and how to look for a good job that is appropriate for your needs. They NEVER judge you or turn you away they always see the positive and the good in people. Wings For Life has helped me in so many different ways. I will always be grateful for the time, energy, dedication and efforts that they give to everyone. Thank you.

Anna Sandoval

For the past semester I had the opportunity to volunteer at Wings meetings on Monday nights. I feel so blessed to have done so and I am sad that my time there has come to an end. Wings is an amazing community that mentors child and adults alike. The dinner portion of the meeting was my favorite because I had the chance to get to know everyone at the table and sit by new people every week. This also gave me the chance just to listen to people and make connections with them. Wings is an amazing organization that is impacting the lives of so many and I hope that they can continue to do so. If you are looking in to the chance to volunteer, Wings is the perfect place!
-Savannah P

I have had the privilege of working with this amazing organization because of an assignment I received for school. I was drawn to Wings because their emphasis on education was important to me. Just like many of the participants, my family has endured the loss of a loved one to incarceration so it was a very personal decision to choose this organization for my assignment. I admired that they focused on educating both returning citizens and their families. I met some wonderful people who showed me that there is another option after incarceration and that success is possible despite what society expects from you.

Zoe
CNM Student

I am an international student from China, I chose wings because it is an international nonprofit organization. I went to wings every monday since two months ago, and it is a very good experience that can be remember whole life. Thanks wings let me know things about returning citizens and their family. God bless you all!
Muen Zhang

Serving with Wings these last 3 months has been such a positive experience. Having the opportunity to meet so many incredible individuals has been the highlight of my overall service. Ann is incredibly motivated and completely dedicated to everyone that walks into these meetings. I have learned a lot and hope to continue serving with them.

Being a volunteer with WFL was an amazing experience, it really opens your eyes. The people that attend are full of life and I have enjoyed meeting them all as well as the great staff and interns. Thank you, WFL for all that you do!

I enjoyed my time volunteering for Wings! I learned a lot, and met a lot of really amazing and unique individuals!

I had the honor of interning here for credits towards my degree in social work and I had a wonderful time! It was great meeting amazing people and getting to hear their stories and seeing them work on bettering themselves. Everyone is so nice and welcoming and you learn important life skills.
-KC Burruss

As a returning citizen and intern, I have had the privilege to experience the love and benefits of Wings. I have witnessed so many people of different age, ethnicity, and gender benefit from this organization. It is a blessing to come to an environment that is consistent of help and unity. I recommend that any person come. I personally have learned how to deal with social and family barriers in a healthy manner. Wings has so much to offer; never experiencing becomes a loss.

Wings for life was very welcoming, and it was an honor to get to meet such amazing people from all backgrounds. The staff all work hard to make Wings the positive atmosphere that it is. Thank you for the opportunity to intern here.

Wings for life is such an amazing organization, especially for returning citizens and their families.

I came to Wings to complete hours for a class. At first, I was not sure what to expect. However after I went to that first dinner, I knew I was hooked. They create and promote such a family environment there. No matter who you are you will feel welcome. They have an incredible staff who are so knowledgeable about the real world. If you get an opportunity to attend any of their Monday night dinners or other events, I would highly recommend it. You will leave feeling great and counting down the days until you can see your new family again.

Hi, I recently volunteered at this non-profit organization and it was an inspirational experience to see people want to turn their lives around. I loved volunteering at this organization; due to the fact, everybody is friendly and the chance to do some good in the community. I would recommend this organization to anybody who wants to help out the community or are coming back into society from being incarcerated.

Hi, my name is DeeDee
I was an volunteer at wings for life. I had an awesome experience got to meet wonderful nice people all who greeted you with open hands. Wings for life programs is very nice i got to work with families and kids of all different ages we did many different crafts even learned proper table manners. Great place to volunteer
thanks you Wings for life

CNM Student Volunteer,

I attend CNM college and in one of my class, one of my assignments was to do volunteer work. I had chosen Wings for Life, I was very impressed and inlighten of this charity program. How they help individuals that have to start over in there lives after they are released from incarceration. How to cope with society again. Wings for Life gives them the hope and the resources to start a new life. I was touched by the stories of many who have succeeded with this program. The kindness, caring, and humbleness of the people that run the charity program. I was once in a hardship and had to raise two daughters, but with the help of my church and other resources, I was able to get back on my feet after a very hard divorce. I am blessed to have met so many caring, and helpful people. So I always said I would give back to my community when someone needs help. It takes a want and choices to make it in this world and it is possible to succeed. It always up to the individual. Believe, be strong and courageous it is possible. I know I was once there.

I currently volunteer with Wings For LIFE International and I can honestly
say that I am proud to be a part of this organization. The people from the
population Wings works with are from all walks of life but all are treated
equally. I have learned a great deal from this organization and gladly promote
them with a great many people. Many were never even aware that their were even
programs out there like that that work with returning citizens.
The Monday night programs, the speakers, the special Christmas parties, the Family Days at the prisons, etc, are all very welcoming and informative.
I enjoy meeting all the different people, the interns we host and learning new
information. Thank you Wings for all the hard work put into your program.

Volunteering with Wings For Life was an awesome experience. They are dedicated to the community and providing opportunities to those who may not have them anywhere else. Overall, they are a great organization.

The reason I found out about Wings For Life was because it was required to do an internship for a class I'm taking. Although, I was required to intern my time at Wings For Life was not wasted. The organization is amazing and filled with so many passionate and dedicated people. Albuquerque has a very high crime so a program like Wings is a very noble cause to try and help those who are returning to society. Wings is like one big happy family! I have enjoyed my time at Wings and hope that I will be able to keep in touch. Thank you for the wonderful and memorable experience.

I truly loved being a volunteer here at wings for life. It's inspiring how much passion and dedication Ann and her staff have for helping the community. With our crime rate being so high in Albuquerque, its great to see a group like this making efforts towards helping the problem rather than just acknowledging it. It was also great to see how the people who attended the weekly meetings were impacted by wings and how the program has influenced them to make changes in their lives. Great organization!!

It was a great first experiance work with charity and nonprofit organization. I enjoyed the time and skills that wings had to offer. I liked that they helped family and children as well, this shows there is hope.

I have been attending Wings for life as a volunteer since September. Being a part of wings has been a great experience. I look forward to it every Monday especially being a member at the dinner table and contributing to group discussion about everyday topics such as "what makes good family relationships" or "what makes up a good resume." Helping out with the children is also a big part of what makes wings memorable . I had a chance to plan an activity for the children which was a great experience in helping me in my career path. I hope that after my internship is over I can still be a part of this awesome organization.

In a political climate where everything is geared by "us" and "them," it's so nice to go to Wings For Life where we all belong. This is a wonderful program that is managed purely by love and faith in humankind. Ann, Yolanda, and the Wings staff are loving and welcoming to everyone no matter what your unique circumstances may be. I started going here to "help" others but the truth is, they've helped me so much more. I'm blessed for the friendships I've made through Wings.
Beth M.

I was a volunteer for Wings, and what there doing is just life changing. They really care about all of these families, they welcome them with open arms and mind. There is no judgement, everyone is so nice and friendly and willing to help in any way possible. This made me want to help more in any way that i could be of service. The resources they provide from family dinners, parenting classes, and the activities for the children. It is something amazing that they are doing and changing lives.

I volunteered at Wings for life and it was just great. You learn proper etiquette at a dinner table, how to set a table. It's a really great feeling helping others and you get a great experience here and everyone is so welcoming. I needed 30 hours for a class a UNM, but I am proud to say I will continue to come after I have completed my hours.

I volunteered at Wings for LIFE for my CNM service learning. I enjoy the time I spent there, meeting and getting to know new people. It helps you learn about the community and is a way you can help with community involvement. Wings is a good and enjoyable learning experience.
Angel

I had to complete service learning hours for school and was thankful to have been placed at Wings for LIFE. This organization teaches life skills and coping mechanisms to people returning to society as well as their families including children. They also help people with basic needs like food and clothing. In my opinion this organization and organizations like it are exactly what's needed to help end unhealthy life cycles for future generations.

Wings for Life is a great non-profit charity. As a volunteer I was able to get to know many returning citizens, and the dreams and goals they set for themselves. The staff is great and very helpful. Hozer Nunez.

I was placed at Wings For Life to complete my social work practicum in the Spring of 2017. Upon attending meetings, and being a part of the work done in the office, I learned how to better communicate with others, as well as become more in tuned with people and their real life situations. Wings For Life gave me the opportunity to get to know people on a level deeper than the surface mask, and that is something that is greatly appreciated.

-Selena Vineyard

Wings is a phenomenal organization. It helps not only children and families, but I also worked with some great returning citizens.

I started out my volunteer services for Wings For Life through a internship program. I enjoy going to Wings For Life on Mondays, it is a different experience every time I attend. When I first went to Wings For Life I did not know what to expect and who I would meet. To this day I met quite a few families and learn a lot about what the struggles those families go through to live an everyday life. They are inspirational and a joy to have got to know, both the families and the other volunteers. I have to say I met some very interesting people, I enjoyed the guest speakers and the parenting program was educational and fun. This non-profit organization is awesome , they have many services to offer and they treat you as you were family. In fact, that is what Wings For Life is one big happy family!

Interning at Wings For L.I.F.E. has been a rewarding experience never to be forgotten. I was introduced to Ann through mutual ministry partners five years ago. A student internship was never on my radar, but through a series of events I found myself under the tutelage of Ann. She has a passion for the mission "transforming lives to break the generational cycle of incarceration" that is contagious. Seeing lives being transformed is the best reward any volunteer could experience.

Although I had never heard of this organization before, I am proud that someone took the time to help those who have had issues in the past with a loved one who is (has) been incarcerated. Ann is passionate about this as she comes from where those seeking help are today. My exposure to this was do to a class assignment and it has awakened me with the struggles that families face with a loved one who is incarcerated. The program gets the families involved with new and different events/experiences. This program wants to break the circle of being arrested and shows the youngest members in these families that they don't need to follow in the path of those closest to them. Bravo!

I chose WFL because it fit perfectly with my schedule. After spending some time volunteering, it's been a great experience. I would love to continue volunteering when my schedule permits. Everything they do to support the community is wonderful. The commitment and enthusiasm shown by everyone is apparent the minute you walk in the door. I want to thank them for letting me experience this program.

I was a volunteer in Wings for life, it was great, people are so nice, and they have a special topic that help you in your life when you are facing a family problem. This organization is great, it can change your life if you attend the meeting every week. If you can bring your kids in the meeting it's a good choice because they have a special program for the kids.

I began volunteering at Wings for my very first introduction to Social Work class. I was so excited when they told me I would be working with a population who needed help, a hand, and some guidance. I talked with families and children whose family members were away and from the words they spoke, I could tell all of them were just trying to be strong, stay strong. Even though these families and children are free and not locked away in jail or prison; they are still struggling with personal pressures and societal pressures of being without their family member. That's where the volunteers and the Wings members help guide them, with talks packed with helpful and needed information about; how to budget, parenting classes, ukulele classes and tutoring for the kids, how to get and keep a job, tattoos, what to ask probation/parole officers, going back to school etc. All of these talks are to empower these individuals whether they be a returning citizen, a child whose mother/father is in prison or jail, mothers of incarcerated individuals. Wings is there to offer a healthy, safe, friendly, educational, helpful, easy environment that is judge free. Being the supportive organization for people who need to be empowered, remembered, heard, and seen. I loved volunteering at Wings and even though my Social Work class has ended, I am still planning on volunteering in my free time. :)

WINGS For Life is a wonderful, sorely needed organization. I have been volunteering with them for about 3 months now and I can attest to their commitment and passion for what they do. In helping incarcerated individuals and their families, they impart a sense of hope that many of these people have never had. Breaking the cycle of incarceration is the way to keep our children out of the system and WINGS provides the tools and skills to help do that. WINGS is desperately needed and I hope to see them being used by more judicial systems all over the world.

I have been volunteering for this organization for approximately two and a half months with the Monday Night Support Groups. I have found it very interesting and informative. The resources brought in and guest speakers that give information to the group are very helpful in meeting the needs of the returning citizens and their families.

Wing is a wonderful organization of support and education. Love spending time with the families and children.

This program is very impressive. I was grateful to be a part of this organization. I love what they stand for and I love the community involvement that makes this program so useful for the population in which they serve. I think it's wonderful that someone thought of serving a community of families that have been devastated by the absence of their family member due to incarceration. This is great community outreach.

Wings provides great positive family nights on Mon nights that are great for everyone, especially children. Much is information is gained, as there are a variety of topics discussed. They have also provided me with a positive purpose as a returning citizen coming back into society wanting to do positive and meaningful things.

I have known Ann and supported Wings for over a decade now and I say without reservation that in my 25 years of correctional experience this is one of the most positively impactful ministries available to incarcerated persons and their families. I appreciate the simplicity, sincerity and consistency of the Wings message and the professionalism of the kinds of volunteers attracted to this ministry. I continue to promote the expansion of Wings in Ohio.

Ann Edenfield and all of her faithful volunteers do great ministry every day - both within prisons to help keep families connected with their loved ones in prison - and for families outside of prison - with ongoing programs for the entire family twice a month in Albuquerque. Ann is also involved in helping connect those in the wider community who work with those who have been released from prison through RCC - Returning Citizens Collaborative, which is a great networking and advocacy organization.

I enjoy coming out and volunteering at Wings. The work that is done at these weekly meetings is greatly needed to help returning citizens transition back into society after paying their debt. I see the smiles in the faces of the people when they give us positive progress reports and credit Wings for helping them in their progress.

I have volunteered at Wings For L.I.F.E. for several months ago and from the first encounter I could tell it was nothing like any volunteer experience I'd ever participated in. Ann is the most positive person and her enthusiasm is infectious. Everyone is warm and welcoming and it is easy to feel that you are really helping. I never leave a Wings event without a big smile. The Monday night Wings programs are a wonderful way to start the week!

I am so thankful to be a volunteer with Wings for Life ministry. Ann Edenfield is one of the most dedicated and tenderhearted persons I have ever met. Her love for the families is so obvious at each and every event that she plans for the inmates and their families. She welcomes the families with open arms, she engages the children and makes them feel special, she encourages open communication from the families and makes them feel that they are important and valued. I watch as the families are encouraged and uplifted by the speakers that minister in the Monday evening gatherings. The families receive a meal , a lecture or teaching and a wealth of information and resources to help them overcome the obstacles and difficulties of dealing with a family member who is incarcerated. They receive training in life skills, rewards for their achievements, prayer, and lots of love from Ann and the group of volunteers that support the Wings for life ministry. The inmates and their families need all the support that they can get from this community and Wings for Life, in my humble opinion, heads the list of ministries achieving that goal. I am blessed and proud to be a part of this ministry and I hope that Wings for Life is recognized for the vital role that it plays in this community.

I have known the founder of Wings Ministry for about 20 years. I have supported the ministry financially and attended their outreaches often during this period, albeit not much over the past two years. This is ONLY because I am cutting back on my own outreaches as well, being 70. Ann, like me, is very personal in her outreach as, I think, was Jesus. The difference between us is her 1)energy and 2)ability to motivate others and to achieve consensus and accomplish Wings Ministry outreach goals. In both of these areas, she FAR exceeds expectations. She is outstanding and has attracted like minded outstanding individuals. If you are interested in helping families of incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals, Wings Ministry sets the standard! I equivocally recommend this ministry.

Working diligently in a system that few seem to notice or care for Wings Ministry has a tremendously wonderful impact on the incarcerated and their families. Wings shares the priceless gift of love with the forgotten members of our society, by organizing socials in which the incarcerated may spend time with their families and loved ones. Without question they are having an incredibly positive impact on the social culture of our great nation.

II knew about this non-profit ministry through my school, CNM as a volunteer. At first I thought the ministry 's job was just to feed people not until I after weeks of volunteering I saw what the ministry was capable of.

This Ministry is one of the best non-profit organizations. Besides feeding and providing clothing for people everyweek, They are capable of helping people find jobs, have tutors to teach students, have guest speakers to talk about health issues, economy and give out gifts to family members and kids.

Awesome prisoner outreach for families of incarcerated individuals

I became involved with Wings Ministry because of their work with prison inmates and thier families. The programming that they provided by creating opportunities for inmates to have interaction with their families and in particular their children is priceless. It makes possible prison visitations to become a positive and life-enriching experience and creates an atmosphere for love and fellowship in an otherwise oppressive environment. The faith-based foundation of this program and the love of the volunteers allow inmates to experience love from strangers that can be life changing.

Wings Ministry provides an opportunity for children to interact with an incarcerated family member in a fun and far more natural setting than the usual prison visit. Kids remember the experience months and years later as a positive experience.

I met Ann several years ago at a COPE conference in Dallas TX and began volunteering on the Wings In-Prison events. Always, ALWAYS, very organized, very kind, very efficient and very effective! I would recommend WINGS to anyone looking for a ministry to volunteer with (or anyone looking for a safe place to donate money too!)

Serving with Wings is like seeing a small piece of heaven on earth. It is beautiful to participate and witness how Wings helps bring humanity to an often very inhumane justice and corrections system.

Wings understands that the vast majority of prisoners will re-enter society and it is their passion and work to help make those who are incarcerated experience healthy relationships, while behind bars and when they come home.

Fantastic organization which helps all the family members with everyday life skills to help them to function well. Very effective and efficient organization. Each person does matter to them!

I have seen the difference family and community support have made to improve the reintegration of someone incarcerated when they move back into the home and community. The Wings Ministry, which organizes parties permitting visits and celebration between those in prison and their loved ones, is certainly a service that is unique, creative and effective. Wings Ministry needs financial support and wider publicity.

Anne is a wonderful person doing amazing work through Wings Ministry, I've known her for many years and watched her develop this program and seen all the good she does. Her commitment and dedication - and that of her staff - is truly remarkable, and I'm proud to be a donor for this work helping children and families stay connected to their incarcerated loved ones.

Wings For LIFE is working to strengthen the families and children of those incarcerated. Working to end generational incarceration. Working to give the families life skills through education to build a solid foundation.

Love the heart of this ministry. It has chosen to love and encourage the forgotten folks in prison, as well as their families. I have personally witnessed the impact Wings for LIFE has had in the prison environment; I attended a festive family get-together for incarcerated moms and their families. The children of these moms were not afraid to show how much it meant to them to be able to hug their moms, dance with them and hold their hands for an entire day of wholesome entertainment.

Many years experience with the people at Wings -- they are all genuine and committed to helping those they serve. Five stars!

I saw the Wings Ministry in action, and I believe they are doing a great work. I also experienced Ann's selfless acts and genuine care for others. This is a great non-profit that is true to their mission of helping others.

I have volunteered with Wings for several years. They bring unconditional love to Inmates and their families, a part of God's family that is often forgotten.

This organization provides invaluable service to many, many people. They REALLY make a long-term difference!

I am a therapist who has brought clients to WINGS. They & their families receive meals, education, guidance, support, case mgmt, and primarily-full, unconditional regard! Their lives are improved, transformed, and much progress & many gains are evident!

Wings is a great place for families to get support. Wings has become like family to me. LOVE the staff, volunteers and people who join us on Mondays.

In a failed criminal justice system where recidivism prevails, Wings for Life shares light with those who are or have been incarcerated and their families. The programs are always encouraging and educational for this population. People need a hand up and not a closed door and Wings is there for t he lucky ones.

Energetic, intelligent Ann a has spoken to our church groups periodically. I have also attended some of her weekly meeting for the families of prisoners. Her ideas for these people work!
The growth of her program even to other states, indicates the value of her program.

Wings provides a vital service to the community. I have worked with Ann for many years and remember her trudging through the snow to a juvenile detention center around Christmas to see the young people incarcerated there and we joked that if we weren't going in to see these individuals they would not see any familiar faces. Tough time of year for them but Ann realized their needs and responded selflessly as usual. Carl D

Wings for Life provides support and hope for families of incarcerated persons as well as those in prisons and jails. I have participated in several prison parties and I see the joy in the families as they reunite and celebrate their families and their faith. Wings for Life also works in the community, providing Monday night meals and speakers, clothing and school donations, and much more. It is meaningful for staff, volunteers, the families and other community members to work with those incarcerated and offer them love and support and hope for their futures along with inner peace.

AMAZING ORGANIZATION!!! They are changing lives around the country!

This is an awesome organization helping our nation's prisoners cope with their incarceration. Do you know we have 5% of the world's population and 25% of all the prisoners. Most prisons are overcrowded with terrible health conditions. For example, Alabama is at 200% capacity. This organization provides inmates with time with their loved ones in the form of parties. They call them parties and they are simple get togethers with food but to the inmates who rarely see fresh food, it is a party. This is an awesome organization doing what it can for those who may have made a mistake in life but don't we all?

I haven't come across an organization quite like this one. Wings volunteers serve inmates, returning citizens, families and the community by offering education, training in life skills and love to those who want it

Volunteering at a Wings Ministry function this summer was a blessing to be with the children as they visited with incarcerated fathers, as the children were able to touch their dad, pray with their father, eat pizza with them, and participate together in fun craft activities. It was an awesome time and all because of the nonprofit WINGS. WINGS truly deserves to be known as a great nonprofit bringing families together.

Helps families of inmates maintain their focus on getting through the ordeal of prison time being served by a loved one. That's valuable but equally valuable are the weekly meetings with "Returned Citizens" (ex--inmates) that coach the returned citizens on re-entering civilian life. Very useful.
The "Parties" in prisons can be a good influence as well. I met a lady in Walmart who had recently been released from the Grants Prison for women who was positively affected by having attended a Wings Party in prison. Good work, Wings!

Wonderful organization that helps without judgment.

Wings is an inspiration to all who attend. Everyone who attends Wings for LIFE learns lifeskills through training in meeting people and talking to them about common subjects that they would be intrested in.
They learn to set banquet tables for 100 PEOPLE. This way they can wait tables as a job to make a living while they go to school.
The staff are caring and that is felt by all that they serve at the Monday night dinner or meeting their loved ones in prison for family days. Education for families is of the utmost importance for success.
I am a member of the Wings team and I believe that this program is a preventative way to stop the children of prisoners from following in the families footsteps into the corrections. It costs 173,000 per year to house a juvenile inmate. Whereas it pays only 8,000 to send a child to school. About 76 per cent of children who are in juvenile detention centers will go to prison.
I was nominated and received the volunteer of the year award for the city of Albuquerque. This is a true psssion for myself and the other dedicated people who work for Wings for LIFE.
DO WE WANT A HIGH INCARCERATION RATE OR PRODUCTIVE CITIZENS WHO DO NOT WANT TO STAY OUT OF PRISONS

Ann and her team have such a heart for the families of the incarcerated. These families need love and help.
They show the love of Christ to all....

After I design 2 faux stained-glass banners, I take art supplies to the annual Wing's Mother's Day party at the Tennessee Prison for Women where moms and their children sign their names on their favorite color steamer and attach it. At the end of the party, we present 1 banner to the prison warden to display in the prison chapel. The second banner goes to Ann Edenfield to hang in the Albuquerque, NM headquarters of Wings. It touches my heart and my husband's to see families reunited briefly, thanks to many moms' good conduct for a year!
~Diane in Cookeville TN

Ann is Wings! She works very hard to make it work!

This is the most caring, loving, compassionate and meaningful group with a great record of
dependability. I give them my utmost respect and support for the amazing work they have
done and continue to do.

It's a honor to be able to help families reunite in prison. And Wings goes the extra mile to bring hope and let families know that they are loved and that it can be a good day if we don't give up on life and trust God.

In working in prison's for 18 years, WINGS is the only time I have seen inmates and their families spending quality time together, quality bonding and sometimes a second chance to help rebuild those bridges that were once destroyed. Keeping this bond between the incarcerated and their loved ones is one of the most important keys to helping those behind the bars and fences have a chance to stay out of prison once they are released. Also, having a Christian-based theme helps to keep the Lord on their side and in their hearts. How can such a wonderful program be denied!

Wings Ministry Prison Parties is the only program, that I know of, that gets the respect and and trust from the Wardens so completely that the Wardens allow intimate contact between the parties. Fathers and mothers get to hold, kiss, and hug their small children through out the 3 hour program. Mothers, fathers, grandparents and other framily members get to touch, hold, and hug their adult incarcerated kids. They get to create several kids crafts, eat pizza and cookies, and more importantly havew fun and laughter together. These families are used to visiting through a piece of glass or across a table where they get two brief hugs, upon entering and leaving and are told to be very quiet and absolutely no touching. I'm constantly amazed at the level of trust Ann Edenfield, our Director, has been able to cultivate with Wardens all over this country. I know she doesn't do this program in a vacuum. God is in the details. The volunteers represent different cultures, ages, religions, and faiths. Their only agenda is to give each family and inmate love, respect and a great time. I will work with these volunteers anytime and have for more than three years. This is the only program in the country that focuses on the families and allows them the ability to give so much unrestricted swupport to their incarcerated loved one. Wings Ministry and Wings for L.I.F.E. deserves to be replicated all over this country.

A dedicated founder. A sizeable and seemingly always growing group of volunteers. And a mission that is desperately needed for children and families of the incarcerated. Wings Ministry is a model non-profit and an inspiration to many.

I have attended 2 Wings parties at a local prison in the Dallas area. It was an opportunity to serve that had unexpected results. As a victim of crime, I was reluctant to participate in prison ministry. After my experience at the Wings party, I was able to overcome my reluctance and hear the call to serve in prison ministry regularly. The service to inmates & their families is heartwarming and such a gift of love for inmates, families and volunteers.

The Wings Ministry has filled a gaping hole in prison-related ministries by reaching out to the FAMILIES of prisoners. The founder and executive director, Ann Edenfield-Sweet, experienced the discrimination and isolation family members face when her first husband was arrested and convicted. She dealt with the challenge of raising their four boys (7 yrs old and younger) alone, with a greatly reduced income and with noone from their church home of 12 years reaching out to help. Inspired by her experiences and the huge population of hurting, isolated families, Ann started the Wing's Ministry in order to share Christ's love with families members and inmates...their number one rule is that "Everyone is to be treated as a child of God". Through community and prison parties, the Wings Ministry volunteers model this behavior to everyone: family members, inmates and even guards, creating a conduit to connect the families into caring church communities. Life-skills education is available through their Wings for L.I.F.E. program. I would highly recommend this ministry for contributions - monetary and for volunteer opportunies- due to its positive impact in our communities and the wise stewardship they have exhibited in their use of limited resources.

I direct a Wings Ministry affiliate in Warren County, TN. We have a partnership with three elementary schools to do Wings for L.I.F.E. classes every other week for children of prisoners. The children love it and they learn a lot! One mother sent us the following letter of thanks that shows how her fifth grade son became a mentor for his whole family after serving as a leader of a small group for 2 years in our Wings class.
Dear WINGS:
My family and I had never experienced such an overwhelming change in life style as we experienced when a member of our immediate family was incarcerated. We did not know anything about the court system or child services and the children and I were immediately alienated from one half of the extended family that my husband and I once shared and that we had trusted for seventeen years. We had to attend many court dates and we were exhausted from the legal battle that had been placed upon us by his crimes. The emotional stress, as well as the financial stress was almost unbearable. This was the crucial time when WINGS first became a part of my son’s life, and soon thereafter, my other four children and myself. My pride prohibited me from attending the family meetings for sometime, but inevitably I was convicted by the change of heart and mind that WINGS was able to nurture in my son with the weekly meeting at school. In essence, he had not only become much more capable of dealing with his own insecurities but had become an effective role model to his younger two siblings and our household as a whole. My son was an inspiration to me and we got involved as a family. We began attending the family meetings held at Bobby Ray and also events held at local entertainment and churches. This provided us with a support activity that was not only emotionally rehabilitating but also a form of entertainment for my children and I that we would have not been able to otherwise afford. We were able to connect with other folks that had been through and continuing to struggle with the same types of issues and also have the opportunity to help out which is very rewarding. The WINGS program works where many others fail because it never made us feel like a “charity case”. It is an experience that not only changes the prospective, the self-image, the expectations, and the motivations of a person’s own will, but also offers a means of filing away the memories and emotional trials by building self discipline, respect for yourself and others, and the ability to turn bad things into new found strengths in a fun way! Thank you so much for your school program and thank you for all the valuable survival skills that we have picked up just from hanging out with you all! I will always hold your efforts close to my heart.
Sincerely,
Angela

Wings couldn't be a better ministry when it comes to being there for people who need them. First the friendship that develops between the members that work for them and the volunteers that give there time and heart . Wings hasbecome part of my life because i found help and people to talk to when i was lost, not knowing where to go for help or who i could talk to. the purpose of wings is to help families of prisoners cope ,learn avenues to go to . When people come out there so lost in this world that they hqave't been in a while and find themselves indespair. But once they find out babout wings and the Monday night gathering, dinner, company , speakers who may be there to talk about questions they don't want to ask, but are at the meeting. ex-prisoners, we love you and were not going to leave you.

WINGS humanizes the "least of these". It also encourages those with incarcerated loved ones by providing weekly skills building mettings to all participants.

I volunteer with Wings because I feel it is very important to help the children whose parents are in prison. We want to teach them lifeskills and encourage them to do good.

We held a WINGS Prison Party at the Youth Detention Facility.One young man said he didn't want to attend because his parents couldn't come. One of the Facility staff members told him he should come and "she would be his mom for a day." The young man did come to the party, and later on, he told us it was the most fun he had ever had in his life. He was released from the Facility two months later, and shortly thereafter, he was killed in a drive-by shooting. When I heard about his death, I was very thankful that we were able to provide him with a wholesome, really enjoyable memory before he died. At another party, a teenaged girl came with her mom to a Prison Party at an adult detention facility. She didn't want to have anything to do with her dad, who was an inmate, and she seemed very embarrassed by him. But as the party progressed, I saw her start talking to her dad, and later, I saw her sitting next to him with her head on his shoulder. I was so glad we had a part in helping to reunite that father and daughter. I could tell dozens of such stories about how WINGS has helped to encourage prison inmates and their families and how it has helped to strengthen family ties.

I've attended a Wings Ministry Party and it's the most wonderful, inspiring, uplifting event I've ever attended. How awesome it was to see families interact, fathers interacting with their children; husbands and wives having the opportunity to connect and talk to one another, and the smiles that come from deep within from the very depth of their souls. Wings is a God Send to the families of the incarcerated citizen. It gives incentive to the incarcerated individual to make better choices so they can have the opportunity to visit with their families, it gives the children, wives and girlfriends excitement and peace that they will have the wonderful opportunity to visit with their loved one. Wings is a needed ministry with the prison institution. Not only does it unite families for a few hours, it makes a significant difference in the lives of children to interact with their parents and strengthens relationships.

I didn't know anything about Wings Ministry until i was employed with them under a 12 week program under NIYC to gain some experience in Office Assistant. After done with my program i would like to continue in volunteering for Wings Ministry.

I have always have felt a need to help people that have been incarcerated, and then Wings showed me how much there is a need for the families of the incarcerated. This program and ministry can help connect both issues and bring love, encouragement, and life training to the desperate. I have watched Wings for 17 years grow from a vision to a very successful reality with great oppurtunities for growth. Along with helping families it does a tremendous service for the local and state governments when we help people reintergrate to society.

I volunteered at a prison in Dallas-area with Wings. I had not spent any time thinking about what the experience would be like, but it was very touching and really made me think about all the innocent families and wives and children who whose husbands are in jail. you could tell that all of the inmates and family cherished their time together.

The Wings ministry of Albuquerque NM is a very active and productive ministry that aids families and friends of people incarcerated. They run very active programs that get people involved and communicating with each other.They can use all the help they can get to keep this program going. They seem to be able to reach people with many speakers and topics that give an up lift to those who attend. thanks for your help Fr. Mark Sutton, clergyman from the Ecumenical Catholic Communion

In October 2000 I became the Director of Music MInstry at Central United Methodist Church in Albequerque, NM. I met Ann Edenfiled who is an alto in the Chancel Choir. I bagan to hear about the Wings Ministry. We had several Wings Parties in our church fellowship hall. The first party for me was one of disbelief. I saw the inmates interact with their families, the volunteers and with Anne. We sang songs, prayed, acted out Bibles verses, listened to Anne tell her story, ate and played games with the families. When everyone left, I was totally in awe. I know that God was present and transformations in our lives were happening.When I moved backed to Arlington, TX our church, Trinity United Methodist, became involved with Wings and we have participated in this ministry at Hutchins State Prison. My husband and I are also financial contributors. I hope you fly to the Wings Ministry and become involved. Joyce Olson, Arlington, TX

I first attended a Wings for L.I.F.E. party when my son was incarcerated. It was so wonderful to be able to interact with my son and other inmates playing games, singing songs and acting out bible stories. We had fun, acted silly and ate pizza! Since then, I have volunteered for other parties. i'm not sure who gets more out of this - the volunteers or the inmates. It is so wonderful to see families having fun together, singing, doing crafts and SMILING and laughing. There is not much to smile about when you are incarcerated and some of these families have never been in church before. Everyone came away feeling a sense of hope and maybe not is all lost when you are incarcerated.

I know the far reaching effect of incarceration. I have seen it in my patients. A program like WINGS is the BEST at supporting the families that deal with loved ones behind bars.

I have been involved with WINGS ministry for over 5 yrs, I have a puppet ministry that performs yearly at the Grant's womens facility and have been overwhelmed by the response to the parties WINGS provides. I donate regularly to WINGS as the weekly encouragement they provide for the families of inmates is essential for the encouragement they bring to the innocent family members.

I have visited and talked with some of the families that are involved with Wings Ministry. All of them were very very grateful for the opportunity to be embraced by such a great organization. The 40 Developmental Assets tool is an excellent activity for adults and kids to learn how to handle certain life situations. The tool is different and gets everyone working with it engaged.

My experience with the WINGS organization and its leadership has been both rewarding and educational. As professional leading a similar ministry I can say that this is one of the best most comprehensive and compassionate organizations of its type.

I began working with Wings while I was Program Director at Dismas House New Mexico, a transitional living facility for newly paroled individuals in Albuquerque, New Mexico. I knew the importance of having ex-offenders live in a positive environment with strong role models. At that time left out of the equation was the ex-offenders family.
Thanks to Wings Ministry, an arrangement was made to have program participants attend the Wings bi-monthly meetings with their family members. This coming together was a huge success. Dismas House program participants looked forward to the meetings. This gave them a chance to be with their loved ones and to experience positive moments together.
What I witnessed was encouraging. Wings Ministry provided a stable learning environment not only for the residents of Dismas House but for their family members. The workshops and dinners gave many something that had been missing from their lives, a safe haven within such a positive environment. The children felt safe and the family that was once torn apart by prison grew stronger through Wings Ministry.
I am thankful that Wings Ministry provides such an important service to families that need support in trouble times. I am thankful that Wings Ministry is now a national program and that others in faraway places can experience the joy and blessings that Wings Ministry shares.
Corinne Rodriguez, Director. NDN Services

Many people forget that inmates have families too. Wings acknowleges and supports us. They also try to help us keep our families together even when our loved one is locked up. It is great to know that they care enough about us to pray with us as will as for us.

Wings has helped 1,000s of families receive care and concern while their loved one is in prison. Ann Sweet, the executive director and staff create a nuturing, positive environment for children to learn and grow. Ann is a role model for Wings events and a person who treats each individual with respect and kindness. Wings makes a profound impact on all of those who are touched by their programs and prison parties.

As a retired clinical social worker I am amazed at the contribution Wings Ministry is making within this community. This is due largely to the energy and vision contributed by the founder and director, Ann Edenfield Sweet. This agency functions on a shoestring. I have never witnessed how much a "shoestring" can be stretched. Volunteers of all sorts amass into an army providing a very wide range of supports. Food and other necessities are sought from hither and yon . All are acknowledged in agency literature. Promotional materials are informational and budget wise.This is an extraordinary agency. I have attended several functions . What is most noticable is the manner in which everone attending participates in some way--from oldest to youngest. All of us leave uplifted and many loads are lifted from burdened shoulders. The agenda is simple and straightforward. Participants have their sense of dignity and value affirmed and renewed. This program is an excellect example of what can be done.

Ann Edenfield Sweet and the Wings volunteers do a great job building and strengthening inmate family bonds that contribute to the successful return of an incarcerated loved one to the community. The laughter and smiles by volunteers and inmate families who attend Wings events are a source of encouragement and hope that continue long after the initial Wings event has come and gone.

I have volunteered with other prison ministries. Many prision ministries are there once a year, and you never hear from them again. Rarely do they assist with the family on the outside. On the inside you're left on your own and that's tough in the prison environment. WINGS makes connections with families and their loved ones who are incarcerated. Connections with the church in the area the family lives, training for life on the outside for the family and the released loved one, major visitation time once a year for encouragement, care, and fun! Being a volunteer with WINGS has helped me understand more fully what the family goes through and how to help remedy the situation. It is the best ministry in New Mexico, and they help other ministries in other states and around the world.

I highly recommend any donations to the organization. This organization impacts so many families and restores so many relationships. Helps individuals believe in themselves to become better members of society and to give back. Therefore this helps the children to believe in themselfs and not follow there parents footsteps. This organization does help so many individuals and has such a great program.

My wife and I participated in Wings Ministry in-prison parties in 2008 and 2009 in Tennessee and New Mexico. The parties are one of the most cost effective and impactful events that I have participated in. In my job, I work with national and regional prison focused ministries. Wings Ministry is one of the best organizations that I work with. Wings Ministry does more with less than any other organization that I know. Their outreach and continued growth is only limited by resources. I have worked with Ann Edenfield Sweet their Founder and Executive Director for seven years and find her to be very professional, passionate and a great advocate for the families of prisoners. I highly recommend Wings Ministry.

WINGS has been into the Ohio Dept. of Rehabilitation & Correction prison system several times to include WCI on two separate occasions. Ann and her volunteers are doing an incredible job for the inmates and their famalies. Thanks Ann for doing all you do! Chris DeHart, DWSS, ODRC / WCI, 5787 SR 63 / PO Box 120, Lebanon, Ohio 45036

I work for a public media station. Our mission is to spotlight issues that the community is grappling with. A subject that was coming up often was bullying. Attending a community meeting on the subject, I met and spoke with several people about their personal experiences. The presenter that day was articulate and very informed about how to deal with the problem as a by stander and trusted adult. She was so effective that we brought her into our TV studio for a community discussion on bullying. Wings Ministries helped us to focus our Public Square episode on the real experiences of young people and families and focus on solutions rather than problems. http://www.newmexicopbs.org/productions/publicsquare/bullying/ Wings Ministries is a valuable resource to the whole community.

If you have never had the opportunity to experience a family's reunion with mom or dad in prison, here is a ministry that does just that. Wings coordinates the entire event for several inmates and provides everything necessary to make the event one that absolutely changes lives, changes families, and blesses volunteers in God's plan for this ministry. I am one of those volunteers who has been blessed while watching incarcerated parents get to hug their kids, talk to them, just sit and look at them, play with them, and love them as only a parent deprived of daily contact with their children could. What a prlvledge, what a blessing, what hope for these children.