Memphis Day Reporting Center Hosts Volunteer Banquet

MEMPHIS – On Thursday night, the Memphis Day Reporting Center (DRC) hosted a Masquerade banquet in honor of the individuals and community partners who donate their time to the clients at the center.  During the evening, volunteers enjoyed a warm welcome from staff, food, certificate of appreciation and a testimony given by DRC Participant Darren Davis.

Davis said the DRC and the volunteers have helped him and others get their life back through the program.  “I was in and out of jail, and I can say today that I am a better me and a whole new me.  The DRC staff helps keep focused.  I feel good to be one of the ones to set the stage for those coming behind me in the program.”

Davis went on to tell the group that he didn’t believe he was supposed to live the way he had been living.  “You have to want this life.  The programs have helped me learn how to be a better father.  They pulled me out of a dark spot and showed me a better way of life.  I am grateful to the DRC staff and the volunteers who take time to come see us.”

Janet Napper, a volunteer with Overcoming Abuse Gods Way, said she is aware that individuals who are incarcerated or on their way to incarceration have suffered abuse of some kind in their life.  “We teach abuse education and how to overcome the effects of abuse.  The participants at the DRC have been very receptive to our program and we want to continue our partnership and would like to extend our service to other TDOC facilities.  The most important thing we teach others is people are not their abuse.”

DRC Volunteer Coordinator, Jessica Wilson, said it takes a special person to take the time to volunteer.  “Our volunteers are irreplaceable and we are so thankful to have such an active group. Volunteering has to come from the heart, because you have to give your time for free.  We wanted to show our appreciation for their work and dedication to our participants, and give them a special night.”