Empowering Women in Criminal Justice Through Chocolatier Mentorship
A FORTH VALLEY chocolatier is making waves in the community by offering support and mentorship to women involved with the criminal justice system. Grace Chocolates, based in Stirling, is taking a proactive approach to help women on their journey towards fresh beginnings.
RISE Mentoring Programme: A Path to Empowerment
The RISE Mentoring Programme, spearheaded by Positive Changes (Scotland) CIC, is designed to provide women with the tools and resources they need to succeed. Through this initiative, women are given the opportunity to enrich their CVs, learn valuable workplace skills, earn qualifications, boost their self-esteem, and engage in self-reflection.
Run by Positive Changes (Scotland) CIC, delicious products are branded under Grace Chocolates, with all proceeds reinvested into training and mentoring programs to support women who have been in custody or received non-custodial sentences transition back into the community. The program offers seven places, with each participant paired with a highly trained mentor who provides guidance and support in a safe and respectful space.
Founder’s Vision: Empowering Women Through Chocolate
Joyce Murray, director and founder of Grace Chocolates, shared her journey with the Advertiser, highlighting the origins of the social enterprise and her passion for empowering women. Having volunteered at HMP & YOI Cornton Vale’s Family Hub Centre, Joyce saw firsthand the challenges faced by women in the criminal justice system. This experience inspired her to create Grace Chocolates and provide a platform for women to fulfill their potential.
Located in a secure space near Stirling’s main transport hub, Grace Chocolates offers a range of services aimed at supporting women on their journey to personal growth and success. Joyce emphasized, “We use the vehicle of chocolate-making to support women, offering a range of services to help them realize their potential and achieve their goals.”
Mentoring for Success: Building Strong Relationships
The RISE Mentoring Programme is just one of four initiatives offered by Grace Chocolates, with a team of trained volunteer mentors dedicated to developing close relationships with participants over a six-month period. Mentors work closely with women to identify their goals, ambitions, and the steps needed to achieve them.
Joyce’s commitment to empowering women extends beyond the mentoring program, as she actively recruits and trains mentors to ensure that every woman seeking support can be accommodated. With a focus on building strong relationships and fostering personal growth, Grace Chocolates is paving the way for women to overcome barriers and thrive in their communities.
Impact and Success Stories: Changing Lives, One Chocolate at a Time
Over the years, Grace Chocolates has witnessed remarkable success stories of women who have benefited from the program. Many participants have gone on to secure employment, volunteer, or pursue further education, demonstrating the transformative power of mentorship and support. Joyce expressed her pride in seeing women find their path in life and return to give back to the community.
As the organization continues to expand its reach and impact, Joyce remains committed to her vision of empowering every woman to fulfill her potential. She emphasized, “Our job will be done when every woman is fulfilling their potential – that’s our aim, that everybody has the chance.”
Women interested in the mentoring program or those looking to become mentors can reach out to Joyce at joyce@gracechocolates.co.uk or call 07482670325. Additionally, supporters of the cause can indulge in delicious treats while contributing to the mission by visiting the online shop at gracechocolates.co.uk.
In conclusion, Grace Chocolates is not just a confectionary business – it is a beacon of hope and empowerment for women involved in the criminal justice system. Through the RISE Mentoring Programme and other initiatives, Grace Chocolates is changing lives, one chocolate at a time.