Congratulations to Office Manager Wanda Kennedy on her retirement! Wanda has been a very important part of carrying out the mission and values of CCJ. We are grateful for her dedication to our agency, commitment to the individuals we serve, and contributions to improving our community. We all wish Wanda the best as she enters this exciting and much deserved new adventure!
]]>
CCJ is pleased to introduce new part-time office managers Cassidy Overbey and Courtney Murphy! They are each familiar with the important work that our agency does in the community through their previous student involvement with CCJ thanks to partnerships with Iowa State University. We are excited to welcome both Cassidy and Courtney to the CCJ team!
]]>
On Saturday, May 13, CCJ staff and volunteers continued our important work in the community by assisting at the Central Iowa Community ID Drive. This event helps individuals obtain a form of identification to prove their identity that can be utilized at many area locations.
]]>
Thank you to everyone who contributed to the LIVE UNITED Food Drive! United Way of Story County was able to collect over 21,000 pounds and more than $19,500 to donate to local emergency food pantries and programs!
]]>
“Upon walking into CCJ I was upset with myself for getting into this situation. I thought to myself no matter how I explain my actions it would not justify them. I knew what I had been doing was wrong but thought it was the only way to solve my problems.
CCJ blessed me with the opportunity to have a chance at rehabilitation without incarceration. I was unsure how bad of a hole I dug myself and was not ready to talk about it.
My first meeting at CCJ was with Cheri Degroot. I had to explain why I was in trouble for selling drugs. Cheri was immensely understanding when I was explaining the reason behind my actions. Cheri and I quickly discovered my support system was insufficient and because of this I was spiraling out of control. I was going through a difficult time in my life without proper coping mechanisms. All the requirements set for me were small hurdles for what I really wanted from this. Sobriety and to be able to function normally while being independent. CCJ gave me the opportunity to take responsibility for my actions. We started setting goals. In the beginning it felt impossible. Like I wasn’t gonna get through this. Cheri helped me maintain sobriety while excelling my mental health at one of the hardest times in my life. Looking back, I’m proud of myself for putting extra effort towards this chapter in my life. I regret the mistakes everyday but without those mistakes there’s an abundance of lessons I would have missed out on. I’m learning to accept the past. Cheri opened up my perspective about goal setting and brought to light my shortcomings. Through this experience I have developed a better sense of direction. I’m beyond grateful for the people I have met. Learning healthier ways to live a good sober life. For those going through similar situations CCJ has helped me change my life tremendously in a growing amount of positive ways. Hope, faith, trust the process.
My life has changed so much since the beginning of this story. I relocated from Iowa to Florida. I was self-employed for 6 months during this time. I’m back to working. Everyday still offers new things to learn about myself along this journey. Knowing that I don’t have to socialize with everyone and saying no has been a superpower. I’m determined to continue growing and advancing my mental health. Having Cheri to support me during this time was crucial. Although the trouble I was in brought permanent damage CCJ has been one of the best experiences in my journey.”
~ Cody
]]>
Hi, my name’s Davis, and I’m a senior here at Iowa State. My major is animal ecology with a criminal justice minor, not your average combo. I chose that combination to appeal to the DNR, and I’m interning here at the CCJ to get job related work experience while benefitting my community. Outside of school I like playing basketball, volleyball, and hanging outdoors with friends. I’m looking forward to working with the awesome staff here and can’t wait to see what it has to offer!
My name is Courtney, I am a Senior at Iowa State majoring in Criminal Justice. After college I want to further my education by getting my master’s degree in criminal justice. In my free time I enjoy reading nonfiction books, going for long walks, and listening to podcasts.
(no photo available) Hello! My name is Hattie, and I am a senior at Iowa State. I’m a double major in criminal justice and psychology, and I can’t wait to get started!
CCJ is pleased to recognize Anna Leu as our 2022 Volunteer of the Year. Anna has spent countless hours supporting CCJ with projects including the collection and analysis of program related data, presentation design, and assisting CCJ staff at local community events. CCJ thanks Anna for her dedication and commitment to CCJ and her community!
]]>
CCJ was fortunate to be one of the recipients of a portion of the proceeds from the 2022 Holiday Home Tour organized by Altrusa International of Ames. CCJ staff and volunteers spent time greeting guests of the Holiday Home Tour at one of the 2022 Holiday Homes on this year’s route. We enjoyed meeting all the supporters of this event.
]]>