Connor Thompson, a graduate of the Clinton School of Public Service and UA Little Rock Bowen School of Law, led weekly “Mindful Money” financial literacy sessions at the Arkansas Department of Corrections’ Women’s Reentry Unit.
Held during Thompson’s first year at the Clinton School and organized through Compassion Works for All, these sessions aimed to empower incarcerated women with the skills to manage their finances effectively upon release. Topics included fundamental financial concepts such as budgeting, housing, utilities, and insurance.
Inspired by Linda Bessette’s book “Mindful Money,” Thompson emphasized a patient, mindful approach to learning, allowing participants to thoroughly absorb the material. His program was designed to foster financial independence and decision-making, equipping women with practical knowledge for life after incarceration.
These sessions provided the participants with crucial financial knowledge and confidence as they prepared to reintegrate into society, aiming to reduce recidivism rates by addressing one of the key barriers to successful reentry – financial insecurity.
Through the combination of mindful learning and real-world financial education, Thompson’s program left a lasting impact on the Women’s Reentry Unit.
The Clinton School Impact Minute is a recurring segment with Little Rock Public Radio, highlighting the Clinton School’s field service impact.
Since 2004, Clinton School students have completed nearly 700 field service projects with more than 300 organizations in Arkansas alone, creating immediate and long-term impact for businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies across the state.
Responses