Testimonial Transcriptions
The original handwritten testimonials displayed throughout this historical archive remain the authoritative source documents. The machine-readable transcriptions below were produced from those originals using optical character recognition and review. They are provided to improve accessibility, readability, and searchability. Because handwriting can be difficult to interpret, some words may contain transcription errors. Spelling, grammar, and phrasing have generally been preserved so the writers' original voices and meaning remain intact.
Duplicate transcriptions have been removed. Personal telephone numbers, mailing addresses, correctional identification numbers, and certain names have been redacted where appropriate to protect privacy.
Testimonial 1: Joshua Biondi — Follow-up Letter
Mr. Koch,
I'm not sure whether or not you remember me, my name is Joshua Biondi. Around 6 years ago when I was 17 years old you tried to help me change my life. Unfortunately for myself, I wasn't quite ready to take life seriously. First off' I want you to know that I have changed my life completely and I have not committed a crime in almost 5 years. I have been attending college for the past 2 years and I have a 3.4 GPA. I plan on transferring to Fisher College of Business at OSU and earning a master's degree in sales and marketing. I also have a beautiful 2 year old daughter and a wonderful fiancee who help motivate me to do the right thing. Anyhow, I would like to thank you for everything you have done for me. You were one of the only few people, besides my mother who have ever believed in me. I have always admired you, and the fact that you ever believed in me at all has always stayed with me. You were the first person who ever made me really believe I could change my life. I would also like to apologize for the way I treated you. I know that you went out of your way to reach out and help me, and I am sorry I wasted your time. I thought I was ready to change but I was wrong. Even though it took me a little while longer to get on the right, you were the one who helped start me on the path. Thank you for everything you have done for me, and once again I am sorry for what I did. Thank you for your time.
Sincerely, Joshua Biondi
Testimonial 2: Incarcerated Participant — Letter About Purpose, Recovery, and Slaying the Dragon
Dave, 4-17-05 Hello how are you doing? I am well. It has been a good day I had a visit to day. I seen my Mom "who is my best Friend", Stepdad John, Aunt Margit, Cousin ER Elizabeth and cousin Fred Allen. They are my main support System I have. They gave me some great news that my youngest brother Christopher will be up to visit me on the 6th of next month that is great! I have not seen him in 4 years, once I gut to prison he yor married and had children. So I never really pushed him to visit. Just because I came to prison dan doesn't mean be he has to as well. I look forward to making Aminds to him. I hope he accepts but if not I know my side of the SCit is clean. I also started A C.A.P.S. program "Convicts Prison Sentences" Its like "Scared straight" but for adults. There are only 4 people in the camp who do it. My self who is doing 8 1/2 years, my bunky who is doing is years, Aguy named William who is doing 15 to 150 years and a muslim named Katab doing life to life. So I'm the short timer of the group. We don't try and scare them we only try to Educate them about this life. we try and give them a reason to use there choice that we dont have. I know it doesn't seam like much but it gives me a Chance to try and po mabay reach the Next 20 your old kid setting ready to do 8 1/2 years. For me right now it is a purpose. In usher words I am finding my difinitiveness. of purpose 355'.
I actually finished reading your book for the second time Friday. I hope you don't mind but I under lined Several parts. I have to be honest I don't usually read "How I did it Books" I had an idea that they were written by some "walking dollar signs" people who have only seen on tv or read about struggles. I hope that makes since. But I can be a man and say I was wrong. I really liked your book for several reasons. The first is I have met you so I know your a regular guy, so to speak. The second is your where I wanna be and you have been where I am now. To me that is hope enough. Alone. As for as the book its self you have done a great job not only telling this is what and how I did it but you went even further in telling this is how you can do it. The things that stick our the must to me are. in "Be honest with yourself" you say "you are in life exactly where you choose to be" That I like because when guys come to this A&D program. I work for they sometimes think it gets to tough. And I tell them if they ever wonder where there supposed to be look down. That's where, I also love the part about Alcoholics Anonymous. I have been sober for 4 years 3 months and 29 days and AA has been there for me. In fact I was asked just last Wednesday to give a lead in our Wednesday night meeting. So AA is very close to my heart. I actually remember when Promise Keepers did "Redeem the time" in 2003 They shut down the whole camp so we could all watch it.
But I think your best work was done with "Making The Decision" The 13 parts with that is what my sponsor calls good truth.
I will tell you the 2 parts that hit me the hardest where "It doesn't hurt enough" and "Anger and Depression" I some times fear that this "nail" doesn't hurt enough. that I will do some good things And forget this pain. I try And remind my self daily that it does hurt enough. The Anger and Depression part I contrast to only because those Are my 2 most Aparent Feelings At my Lowest points. I know they are both secondary Emotions But they are what show them selfs. I blame it on my Age. Maybe in 20 years I will become Blissfall and contint, probably not be ther is ok. I let one of my partners read your book as well. He's not much of a reader so I am hoping it will motivate him A Little. I enjoyed Your book Because It was easy to read and direct. Keep Spreading Good truth, I Love the word picture About Slaying the Dragon. It is Very Fitting. It makes me feel Like a warrior. I could go on and on But I would Like to Thank you for showing interest enough in My Life To come out here, write me and send me your book. It really does mean alot. Since my Father stopped talking to me I sometimes hold back on telling older men that I Look up to them But I do to you because you have proven that some one can go From The Very Bottom of The trash can to The Top of The Ivory Tower. The Quote I read ever day is By Dietrich Bonhoeffer; Much As I long to be out of here I don't believe a single day has been wasted. It is to curly to Say what will come from my time here But something is bound to come from it. He wrote That while being held captive by the Germans In WWII. If he can have hope Like that Then So can I.
Thank you again. I hope to hear from you soon. Write Back Soon.
P.S. I apologize for my Hand writing and grammar. They have never been my strong suites.
Sincerely Yours
Testimonial 3: Andrew — Seminar and Book Testimonial, June 18, 2009
June 18, 2009
Mr. David Koch:
I want to thank you so much for the seminars you gave throughout this week. I've really enjoyed being a part of the ones I attended. I signed up for them all but wasn't enough room. I really appreciate you taking the time to share with us Keys to success. I've also read your book and its helping me one day at a time. I now can face my dragons and know the techniques to slay them.
It is such an honor to have you speak and its really helpful comming from a convicted felons point of view. I now see it can be done. So now I will give 100% to achieve my goals in life. Because of you I now am a better and smarter individual.
Once again I thank you for your time and knowledge throughout this week and Congratulations on your success and achievments.
Sincerely,
Andrew Andrew
Testimonial 4: Chris — Letter About Change and Preparing for Release
Dear Dave Koch. How are you? I am doing good. My Self I have 15 Days left here! I got your book thank you so much for it i am on page 100 Now. I think it is wonderful it has helped me to think of some thing I have done in the past and how I can Change. If you would like help when I get out with you boat I would love to help you With it if you want help. What all does your business do with the internet. I want to thank you for helping me think about Some stuff about my Step-Dad when you came and talk to us. It realy made me think about life and other things a little more. Thank you so very much. Well I have to go now. Please write me back. Chris [telephone number redacted] [telephone number redacted]
PS: I gave you my number for when I get out if you want to call and talk to me about any thing. Just ask for Chris. Well gzg bye bye..
Testimonial 5: FCCC II Participant — Employment and Reentry Letter, January 6, 2005
MR. Dave Koch. January 6 2005
I hope this letter finds you in good health. To RE fresh your memory a little bit, ON October 20th you WERE a guest speaker At FCCC II for Community Connections. You really Enlightened ME ON the Sentencing Commission, Judges who have Criminal Convictions, job preparation, and the Lateral Sanctions that Can't Stop me from Succeeding. I Am a person who's had an incarceration EVENT, and I know this can't stop me from the Success I want in Life. I Still have a court date February 16, In front of The Honorable John P. Bessey. MR. KOCH, you told me to write to you, and You would
that would help ME in my quest for Normalcy and Stability. I also Ask for your Assistance in finding Employment. Sir this is A Serious inquiry. I'm trying so very hard to operate on my Strengths - Not My WEAKNESS. I'm married and live in the greater Cincinnati AREA. I Look forward to hearing from you Soon. Thank you for your time. Enclosed is my functional Resume. I'm open to All your Suggestions and I will do Any type of work. and whatever it takes to emulate your teachings and your Station in Life.
Thank you.
P.S. THE picture is used to Put A FACE ON the letter Your Reading I sat in THE front durin Sincerely
Testimonial 6: Incarcerated Participant — Response to Dave Koch's Personal Letter, March 31, 2005
Dave, How are you doing? I am very well. 3-31-05 I would like to thank you for writing me. I expected to hear back from you but not like that. My own Father has only written me once in the last 4+ years and that was only one page. So thank you very much, your words were very encouraging. I just received your book as well. I'm about 65 pages into it and it is a very good book. Give me about a week or so and I will finish it and write you back.
Thank you again for everything you have done. It really helps me to keep going on knowing someone really even remotely cares about some kid in prison. He doesn't really know. Thank you. I look forward to hearing from you again. Sincerely yours, Judy
Testimonial 7: Josh — Education, Employment, and Positive Change
Dear Mr. Koch,
I would like to thank you for all the help you have provided me with. This experience has been one of the hardest times in my life. On the other hand it has taught me some lessons I needed to learn. I want to explain how much your book has given me inspiration, hope, and the knowledge to gain a better future. Due to prior actions and habits of my past I stopped paying attention at school in about the eighth grade. Now I use that only as further motivation to focus on my education in the future. While doing this time I am studying for my G.E.D., my goal is to get one hundred percent on all parts of the test. That will allow me to get an actual high school diploma. I have always been interested in sales and over the recent years I've developed a particular interested in real estate. I know that I will need to acheive gainful employment as soon as I am released, which could be as soon as one week away. In one of your classes you explained you might be able to provide a job or at least an interview to a young person such as myself. I would like you to understand that I am not looking for a hand out and I am fully willing and determined to work hard for anything that is offered to me. Also above all else I would like to thank you for the amazing help you have given me already. I can honestly say that you have been one of the major contributors in the positive changes I am making and have made in my life! I look forward to hearing back from you.
Sincerely, Josh
Testimonial 8: Release Preparation Class Participant — April 10, 2005
Dear Mr. Koch April 10, 2005
I attended a release prep class in which Mr. Moore was the teacher. I was really touched by your story and would like to learn more about your experience. You had mentioned something about a book that you have written. The reason that I am writing is because I am going home at the end of this month and I was wondering if you would send a copy of your book to my mom's home so I will recieve it for sure. If so the address there is
I am really looking for ward to reading your book. Thanks for your advice, I really think that it will help me out in the future to better my actions.
Sincerely.
Testimonial 9: Presentation Evaluation — Natural, Honest, and Well-Organized Speaker
Name: 5pts
Give me your thoughts on Mr. Koch's presentation.
A very good speaker. He spoke in a natural way. But I could tell he was well organized, in his speech and his message. He did not try to act above or better them us, But the simple way he dressed and carried himself showed success and confidence. He was honest by saying it was not going to easy to reach your goals 2pts Its too bad we didn't have more time because, I wondered about his education, was college before prison or, all after his release?! Self taught No degree! What kind of degree or degrees does he have?
Did he learn anything while he was in prison? All in all his comes across as a honest gifted speaker. Who's willing to spend alot of his retirement time sharing with others. The good parts. Pts. and his mistakes.
Testimonial 10: Correctional Staff Letter — Goals and Interview Presentation, July 27, 2004
JULY 27, 2004
MR. DAVE KOCH [mailing address redacted] COLUMBUS, OH 43086
RE: HELPING AND SHARING AT CRC
DEAR MR. KOCH,
THANKS FOR YOUR VISIT TO CRE AND A "GREAT" TALK ON GOALS AND INTERVIEWS! WE APPRECIATE YOUR TIME AND EFFORT.
THANKS AGAIN FOR CARING AND SHARING. I HOPE YOU CAN MAKE A VIDEO AND SHARE IT WITH ALL OF OHIO.
PLEASE ADD ME TO YOUR MAILING LIST.
GOD BLESS YOU.
RESPECTFULLY,
[mailing address redacted] [mailing address redacted]
Testimonial 11: Presentation Evaluation — A New Outlook on Life After a Felony Conviction
Nice work 5pts
Name: [BLOCKED OUT]
Give me your thoughts on Mr. Koch's presentation. Listening to Mr. Koch's presentation has gave me a whole new outlook on life. Just because I'm a convicted felon doesn't mean that I am a failure. I still have a chance to make something of myself. He has showed me new ways to go about getting a job and becoming successful. We also showed me how I can save up and own a $100,000 house in a matter of about 3 years. All I need is a willingness to want to work. No matter how many times I get turned down for something don't get discouraged and give up. Keep trying someone will give you an opportunity sooner or later. Just don't give up.
Testimonial 12: Incarcerated Participant — Hope, Education, and Personal Change, March 17, 2005
Mr. Koch 3-17-05
Thank you for coming in and giving us some Hope. I really enjoyed your speech. I've been locked up since I was 20, I am now 25. This is my First Time ever being locked up. I've spent The last 5 years, I think pretty well. I have ecined a High School diploma. I completed A 15½ month A0D programi I am a program Aide For Them now, and I am ½ way done with This 2 year college program I don't get our until Jan. 24th 2009. I Strive To completly Change every shing About who I used To be. I was not a good person. I like who I have be come and are becoming. I am Kinda coming To
Testimonial 13: Presentation Evaluation — Temporary Imprisonment Does Not End the Future
2pts 2/26 Name: Give me your thoughts on Mr. Koch's presentation. I WISH THAT HIS PRESENTATION COULD'VE BEEN GIVEN TO THE ENTIRE PRISON POPULATION. BECAUSE MOST ASSUREDLY EVERYONE NEEDS TO HEAR WHAT HE HAD TO SAY. I FOR ONE WAS MOVED BY HIS STORY, AND IT JUST GOES TO PROVE THAT LIFE IS WHAT YOU MAKE IT IN MANY INSTANCES. JUST BECAUSE OF THESE TEMPORARY CIRCUMSTANCES (IMPRISONMENT) IT DOESN'T MEAN THAT WE CAN'T GO ONWARD WITH OUR LIVES AND MAKE SOMETHING OF OURSELVES. THIS MAN IS A PRIME EXAMPLE OF WHAT CAN BE ACCOMPLISHED IF WE PUT FORTH THE EXTRA EFFORT, AND ARE WILLING TO MAKE SACRIFICES. EVERY PERSON IN THIS PENITENTIARY CAN LEARN FROM MR KOCH'S EXPERIENCES. 3 pts.
Testimonial 14: Presentation Evaluation — Goals, Honesty, and Moving Forward
Name 5pts Give me your thoughts on Mr. Koch's presentation.
My thoughts on Mr. Koch's presentation Are that it was a good and motivating lecture. I was glad for his success doing he had to start from the bottom. I liked how he didn't get discourage when he came to a set back. Also how he was just honest about his past with people. After coming back from the lecture it really had me thinking= First about my goals and what I was doing to meet my goals. I feel it I work hard and keep my focus on what i want to do & can make and meet my goals. Mr. Koch just motivated me and made me feel like it doesn't have to end here and that i can still be successful even though i have a set back. I just have to get on and move forward with my life and i really like how he was listing the things we would want
Testimonial 15: Bible College Participant — Goals, Peer Support, and Slaying the Dragon
Mr. David Koch PORT Columbus INT. AIRPORT [mailing address redacted] [mailing address redacted] 43236-0584
Dear Sir, I am delighted to make your acquaintance. Recently after receiving your book "Slaying the Dragon" I was moved to take a long look at my goals and priorities. I have assembled a small group of like minded men, who along with myself believe we can work toward & accomplish great things during and following our stay here at the facility. Until I read your book I didn't have as much ammunition to use in my workshops, they kept on saying my (Zig Ziglar) and (Ralph Marston) quotes and zen focus training didn't apply because of our incarceration. My system was simple. I began with myself and over the past few years I've developed 5 core men who I work with. We have set short, medium and long term goals and work to support each other in an attempt to reach them daily.
Before I go ANY FURTHER let me pause To give credit where it is due. Included with this letter is A Small Explanation of The Bible College, From which Fue Achieved my Bachelors Degree and am currently working on My Masters program. Warden is one of these few men I've met, in my life who is honestly at least in my eyes A Real Hero. He is A Pastor, He's Also A warden, and an example of what we could All possibly Achieve someday, if And when we become disciplined. He's Allowed me to start the Bible College Band, which is my primary focus. Without it I Can't honestly Say I could Have Held on As Well As I Have. This Bible College, started with a handful of students and has grown to (4) pods and a total of 260 Students, for a graduate of this program As of the writing of this letter we Have a 0% recidivism rate. It's Been going since about 1997 and very successful. My primary objective will be , upon release to see a Bible College like this one in every facility in
My group is focusing on Vocabulary Building, grammar, spelling, Spanish Language, and Music. We of course are Reading the (King James) Bible through in one year, and I hope to have a New and Old Testament on tape, to properly learn pronouncing of the names by.
3 I so enjoyed your Bok I immediately presented it TO THE WARDEN FOR APROVA! TO BE INSTAlled in wur Bille College liBRARY AFTER A Small Report on it, AND ENLugh Time For Him to Aplove I expect to see IT Added TO OUR Shelves. With your permission I would like to use it AS A guide Book AT MY MORNING AND Qvening Motivation Meetings. THE AMOUNTS These Fellows Have UNTIL REARNI TO Society is VARied, BUT I Believe The SOONER we START THINKING AND ACTing like Success The SooNee we will see it. I WANT TO THINK you& FOR TAKing The Time To Read THIS, AND FOR Writing This Book. I Hope to Someday Accomplish MANY of THE THINGS I've Read ABOUT You Having Dove. Flying Has ALWAYS BEEN A DRO, The closest Ive come whS I Ride in my Uncles. CESSNA 172, AFEW YEARS BACK & Building, phones, Helicopters, AND Rockers with MX SON BEFORE INCRECORDRE I Know Your Busy, So I will close WITH THis. ON Betalf of THE Redeemed) BAND AND THE BIBK College in general, God Bless you. THANKYOU.
Testimonial 16: Presentation Evaluation — Practical Employment and Goal-Setting Strategies
Spts
Name:
Give me your thoughts on Mr. Koch's presentation. I thought the presentation was inspirational. The fact that Mr. Koch had walked in my shoes, and experienced some of the same things I have, held alot of weight with me. You don't often hear about people, who have become successful, and have been incarcerated. I especially took note of the different strategies involving getting hired. I think Mr Koch's methods could be very useful. I think Mr. Koch's attitudes towards problem solving were practical and realistic. The main subject that I plan to implement into my life, was the creating a goal, plan. I plan to spend these last two years creating a plan and goal. I already have a general idea of what I would like to accomplish. But I want to have everything written down into increments.
Testimonial 17: Presentation Evaluation — Encouragement, Hope, and Barriers Facing People With Convictions
Spts
Name:
Give me your thoughts on Mr. Koch's presentation.
I THOUGHT MR. KOCK'S PRESENTATION OVER ALL WAS GOOD. HE SET OUT TO GIVE US ENCOURAGMENT AND HOPE IN WHICH HE ACQOMPLISHED VERY WELL. BEYOND THE OVER-ALL MESSAGE OF ENCOURAGMENT AND HOPE HE GAVE US SOME TIPS AND TOOLS TO HELP US ACHIEVE THOSE GOALS. INCLUDING WAYS TO SET AND ACHIEVE GOALS. DURING HIS PRESENTATION A THOUGHT DID ENTER MY MIND AND IT WAS HOW MUCH LAWS HAVE BEEN PAST SINCE MR. ROCK'S RELEASE IN 1980 THAT KEEP A CONVICTED FELON DOWN. EXAMPLE I'M SURE NOW 'N 2005 YOU COULD NOT GET A PILOTS LISCENCE, YOU ARE NOT ALLOWED TO GET A LISCENCE TO BUY AUTOMOBILES AT A DEALER AUCTION AT WHOLESALE. THOUCH HIS MESSAGE WAS MORE ABOUT THE CHOICES WE MAKE, I STILL GRASPED HIS POINT POINT WHICH WAS A GOOD ONE. I THINK SUCCEEDING 'S A LITTLE MORE DIFFICULT NOW THEN IT WAS 25 YEARS AGO.
Testimonial 18: Incarcerated Student — Determination, Education, and Pursuing a Degree, February 22, 2005
Feb 22, 05
Dear Mr. Koch,
Sir I genuinely thank you for coming back into prison to educate, encourage and inspire our class last month. Your story truly was uplifting, and is exemplary of how much one can prosper in spite of any circumstance. What your presentation said most to me is that I too can be successful (legitimately) by just simply applying sheer determination and limitless extra efforts.
I count myself to be as equally fortunate as I said that you were, mainly because of all the information and motivation that I acquired from your speech. I won't persist to occupy too much more of your time. But I do want to convey that I'm persuaded to stay in hot pursuit of my degree, and I look forward to one day soon presenting it to you along with my plan.
Thank you again for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
P.S. In the case that you may want it, my mailing address is as follows: [mailing address redacted]
Testimonial 19: Presentation Evaluation — The 30/15 Rule for Discussing a Felony in Interviews
5pts Name:
Give me your thoughts on Mr. Koch's presentation.
I felt that Mr. Koch's presentation was a very valuable tool. He had ways of Saying somethings that just made it easy to understand. It also felt good to hear a VERY Successful story of a ex-offender. He gave me a lot of tips on how to better answer some tough questions in a job interview or in life ingeneral. I particularly liked his 30/15 rule. 2 pts When you are asked about felony convictions answer in about 30 seconds and be as brief as possible then go directly to some of the more possitive things you've done since then. If you are asked again about the felony Only spend 15 sec. on it then right back to the possitive. Overall I wouldn't Call Mr. Koch a motivational Speaker. I feel he just gave us his story and kept it real. Not to say that one couldn't use his life as some type of guide. "Remember Opportunities will come along. You have to put yourself out there and then "seize" the opportunity. You Only need 1 yes!" 3 pts.
Testimonial 20: Presentation Evaluation — Second Chances, Education, and Building a Better Life
Second chancicare always a blesar and a way to prove onesty!
Nice work 5pts Name:
Give me your thoughts on Mr. Koch's presentation. I really liked Mr. Dave Koch's straight forth and open, way he explained his ups and downs in life and I could Relate to him because he is a convicted felon Just Like I am but I haven't had a chance at trying to be free agains Like Mr. Koch but someday I will be free again and I will Recieve a lot of NO's when Looking for work but Im Just trying to get one yes to get myself started on the up path to a better Life and a better person because I am not the same person I was in 1992 When I put myself into prison but now I have a great life because I have been given a great chance in prison and I am trying to make the best of it by getting my Highschool Diploma and programs to ?etter myself and now I am holding down a Job and attending college at the Same time because I Want to prove that I am better than I have Been given credit for and I Just want a chance to prove it to Society but in due time! Just Like Mr. Roch did! I Really Just want to make people See a side of me that most of my Life has been Locked away.
Testimonial 21: James W. Louk — Thanks for the Time and Wisdom, February 29, 2009
Dear Mr. Koch, 2-29-09 My name is James W. Louk. I'm not real Sure if you remember me or not but, I was the "Computer Greek." I was also the guy that gave you the quote about the wise man and the fool. This fact, however, is of little importance and I don't expect you to remember everyone. I have, however, been meaning to write to you for sometime now.
The intentions of this letter are simple and I will keep it short because I know that you're a busy man. I just wanted to let you know that even if no one else in this facility cared or appreciated you giving up some of your time to come out here in the middle of nowhere to speak with us and try to help us, I did! I know that you had nothing but the best intentions in your heart and your cause was a noble one. I took everything you had to say very seriously and I hope that it can one day help me in my own life.
I found your words to be deep in meaning and the time you gave inspirational and I respect you for that. I want you to personally know that your effort, even if it helped no one else, helped me. I also hope that my letter can bring an inner sense of success that you spoke so much about. This sir, is your "feel good shot" from me to you because it's the least I could do in return for what you tried and did do for everyone here!
"Thanks for the time and wisdom," Sincerely, James W. Louk [identification number redacted]
Testimonial 22: Presentation Evaluation — Honesty About the Past and Finding Meaningful Work
Name:
5pts Give me your thoughts on Mr. Koch's presentation.
I think Mr. Koch gave a good presention. At the beginning of presentron, I have no idea what he trying to present. I thought he try to teach us how to fly a airplane because at first he mention that he took a flight lesson in 1981, and he goes on talk about how he became a instructor in flight school, owning a F.N.S.I. Campany, and then Sold his campany. When he mention that he has been on parole in 1980, that's gave me a idea what he trying to present. 2 pts Mr. Koch try to tell us that, even you have a folony, it will not stop what yoce want to be. Just work hard on it and be honest about your past. To get cotch a good opportunity you have to be out there to catch it. He probaby be right about all that, because he has suceed it. But everybody is different, just like he stated. One can do it, doesn't mean everybody could do it.
I never been on the street with a folony before, so I really don't know that would be my road block or not. It really doesn't matter, be cause It will not. Stopping what I want to do. But first I have to figured it out, what I enjoy doing it and getting pay at the same time. That's a tricky part. 3 pts.
Testimonial 23: Anonymous Participant — From Hopelessness to New Hope
Adrian - there is always hope. Failure happens to all of us - it is. Name: [Name removed to protect privacy] ~ what we learn from our failures that guide us to success! Give me your thoughts on Mr. Koch's presentation. There are many nights that I layup on my rack and shed tears. I feel like, such a failure. Situations have transpired in my life that lead me to believe there's no hope for my future. Mr. Koch ignited something in me. My hopeless way of thinking changed in a matter of hours. He gave me the motivation to do something productive with my life. He gave me a brand new hope for my future. I now know what we're you going in life and what you accomplish is based on the decisions you make. I've come to the conclusion that sitting around letting life pass me by is not an option! I have the potential to do anything I set out to do. Mr. Koch evenly lifted my spirit and despite being in a dark place like this. There's still time for change. This episode in my life is not the end, it's only the beginning. I wish there were more people like you and Mr. Koch around!
Testimonial 24: Presentation Evaluation — Hard Work, Education, and Entrepreneurship After Prison
Name: 5pts
Give me your thoughts on Mr. Koch's presentation. I feel he tried to motivate us to keep pushin for our goals even though we're incarcerated at this time. He let us know that we can still make something out of ourselves. With a lot of dedication and hard work. You make you? not your back ground record, it plays a part only if a person go off that. People going to have opinions about you but that's just what they are opinions. You are always Able to change and prove people wrong. Give a lot of effort in life and get what you deserve out of it. He also told us being a felon doesn't mean you can't start your own business. It's possible to do time, get out and open up a business. He proof of it happening. A little support from a couple of important people in your life and it can be done, Keep a positive attitude and head, you'll get a positive reward from success. This time you should take advantage of and learn as much as you can. Your opportunity is coming to become your own boss. In order to not end up in this situation again you have to use your time wisely and appropriate for society. If you continue to get knowledge and school once your released. Your chances of success is higher than your chance of failure is. Who your involved with plays a role in the out come of your life too. 3 pts.
Testimonial 25: Larry — Letter About the Anthony Center and Continuing Support, September 13, 2009
Sorry for the Misspellings Send me a Picture of you and Buddy 9/13/09 Dave, Hey Buddy... Whats going on your way Not 2 much here... I was writing you to tell you That I got kicked out of the Anthony Center... But Before I get into all of that... I want you to know that your little talks and assambleys helped open my mind... And I thank you for that... I've Beens meaning to write this letter sooner... But I Really didn't know what 2 say... So I Guess In Just going to wing this. Oh yeah I was getting Into your Book But unfortunently I can no longer Redd t... When I left Back in July Mo McCourt still hadn't started the Group in the library... I me was looking forward to it.. I got kicked out for 2 many write ups... I had 23... That was way 2 many. But the Unit team everytime Id go ask a Question they'd H look at me and Be like your still here.. So it felt like everyone was out 2 get me ... But to let you KNON if everything goes as Planed Ill see Propole Oct 216, 2009... But I don't have a home Plan... So yeah..... I won't Be getting out... But Short after I get one I should.... you know it's always good 2 have someone 2 kalk to... And I think you'd Be the Best ove 2 talk to... Because you're BeeN Down my Pode and Koawa what its like wall Dave I want to get Road this in the Mail ... Please write Back... You can send your Real Address If you want
me...ve LARRY Shaver Do Trof
Address Back
Testimonial 26: Presentation Evaluation — Reentry, Job Applications, and Goal Planning
Name:
Give me your thoughts on Mr. Koch's presentation. I like to start off by saying that I thought it was nice of Mr. Koch to come by and share his story with us. Hearing the situation or shall I use the term he used "incarceration event" he had might steer individuals from returning to a correction facility. I must say I was impressed with the path he took after being released from prison. Following his dreams to obtain pilots licenses was his first stepping stone to his success. I liked his honesty as far as being reject- ed by certain employers and how he could have given up but stayed focused and kept striving. At first I was think- ing along the lines that now that I have this felong life is gonna be a little harder, but he ensured me that there's people out in society willing to give you a second chance. I thought his tips on filling out job applications could be useful once I'm released back to society. The term behavioral Oberation. I thought was kind of a witty way of getting an employers attention and enabling you to sell yourself to them. Also having the proof needed to back up your presentation was key information needed in your interview. I also noticed how he stressed how important it is to have all the goal's you're trying to reach drawn out and start attacking them one by one.
Testimonial 27: Presentation Evaluation — Inspiration, Accountability, and Careful Planning
Name:
5pts Nice work
Give me your thoughts on Mr. Koch's presentation.
I believe that Mr. Koch's presentation was very inspirational to me. He has really helped open my eyes even more. His words have lead me to believe that any dream that I have can come true as long as I stay on track and believe in myself. It's hard to imagine that a person being in the same shoes I'm in has been so successful through out life after leaving Prison. Through hard work and never giving up he has made his dreams and goals come alive. He is avery strong minded person that never lost sight of what he wanted. 2 pts I know now, if I apply myself and work hard toward my dreams they will all come true for me some day. Mr. Koch has and still very goal orientated and makes out a plan to achieve those goals in which he sets for himself. He has made me realize that through careful planing and deep thinking we can figure out the best way to achieve what we want. He also gave us strong interviewing tips and how to explain our past to employers about being locked up here in Prison. Up to this point I've tried to justify being here and blaming other people for the mistakes that I've made. The more I think 3 pts. about Mr. Koch's words I can come to terms with being here. I want to use this time as a step forward instead of a pause or set back.
Testimonial 28: Presentation Evaluation — A Life-Changing Message About Perseverance
5pts
Name:
Give me your thoughts on Mr. Koch's presentation. I think chis presentation was mativating. Sure made me wanna do something with my life. They wary the started telling chis life exsperiences. Were he stands at now. And hou he started off from inside a prison geeting his life back together. How che showed that it was ino easy path. And che still was Knocked down at times. But the only gout up and Contince to follow this plans untill he reach his goal. There are so mamy thinges the said in this presentation, that make alot of sense. How he explain about mat making excuses and puting it all out ithere on the table. This way you have mathing to hide. your past is like a open book, Though
2 pts prisen is a bad place to be. it doesn't mean you stop learning and testtering yousof you 'self. I would feel free to tell my life story if I came fulom a filare like this, and achiena all my goals. And started a bunch of New ones. Really d way inat at paying attention to chis puresentation. But things that he was saying gave me vo choice but to biten. Because I admired his stony. And deep down inside al wanna be able to clock back one day and say. I didnt let one downfall Contrall my destiny in life. Now one day at a time In prepearing Anyself fan a future of unlimited goals to ach achieve. I think Mr Koch's presentation was a life changing moment for me. And it was Sincerly garding with No bullshit lies, so it was Realty pts. Really New ones.