Blog by Bonnie

Hello, my name is Bonnie Rice. I am 40 years old. I am originally from Baltimore, MD but I am currently living in D.C. I am a returning citizen from being incarcerated for a total of 5 years in Tallahassee, Florida. I was released on December 8, 2015 to Fairview Half Way House. The number one thing I cherish is family values. My daughter and granddaughter are everything to me. I am also a great friend, very dependable, loving and positive.

I came across Together We Bake because graduates Colida and Hanna came to demonstrate and educate us about the program at Fairview and I was given an application. After filling it out, I came to the Downtown Baptist Church for my first interview, and speaking with Tricia and Stephanie made me want to be involved with the program even more.

I love Together We Bake. I aspire to volunteer for the program after I graduate. There has been a sisterhood built here and through empowerment and kitchen time we have all grown extremely close. I look forward to coming to this program every day when I wake up. The program has helped me become a better me. I have gained a sense of self, honesty and trustworthiness. It has helped me become more open to new possibilities within myself and my life.

I am transitioning back into reality by programming at Together We Bake. I am remaining optimistic about life after graduation. This program has motivated me to become an even bigger role model for women and youth. I want people to know that there are second chances in life. Eventually I would like to become a youth peer specialist, working with teens to get them on the right track. I would then like to go back to school to become a physical therapist for disabled children. I encourage anyone who has been in my position to go through this program. Give yourself a chance, it is truly life changing.