Our Impact

Before I started Take2, I had no hope of a positive future for myself. The last few years leading up to my imprisonment were a downward spiral of failure and disappointment. My incarceration was the end of that spiral, and I couldn’t see a positive life for myself anymore. Since then, Take2 has turned my life around and helped me build real, meaningful changes in myself and my lifestyle. Take2 has developed qualities in me that I never knew I had and supports me through every step of my journey. Take2 really feels like a second chance at life and has been a healing experience for me. I feel happy, confident, and can see a bright and better future for myself and my family.

There’s something deeply spiritual about our class — maybe it’s the diversity of heritage and faith, or the self-imposed tikanga we hold ourselves and each other accountable to. Maybe it’s the kindness of strangers from all walks of life, genuinely willing to sit down and help us. Whatever it is, you can’t deny the sincerity and mana of everyone involved with Take2.

Remember the floppy disc? Well, that was the last time I had used a computer. I knew absolutely nothing about coding or computers. Take2 has taught me in a way that suits me. I like to learn by seeing things get done, by watching videos, or by seeing examples or answers first. Take2 provided me with all of that, and I work at my own pace. Repetition is key for me — the more I was able to do something, the easier it became.