Woman helps inmates move back into society
Vanita Nevis is a doer. When she sees someone in need, she offers clothing, food, a job or just the comfort of human contact, especially to those shunned by society.
For the past eight years, the Canal Winchester resident has directed her altruism toward easing the homecoming of prison inmates, who often struggle to find sustainable careers and lack even basic necessities after their release. Instead, they receive paperwork and bureaucracy.
“That’s not what these guys need,” said Nevis, 64. “They need a person guiding them.”
She has accepted that mantle, creating entrepreneurship programs for them while working for the Ohio Department of Development. After retiring in 2013, she helped to form the Central Ohio Citizen Circle, an all-volunteer organization that provides wraparound support for their re-entry into the
“That’s not what these guys need. They need a person guiding them.”
— Vanita Nevis
community.
Nevis visits prisons around the state, offering her time and services while showing inmates the attention and respect they crave. Her peers, including fellow Citizen Circle volunteer Tim Myers, are struck by her dedication and selflessness.
“I’ll never forget this woman for the rest of my life,” Myers said.