Today we’d like to introduce you to Scott Odierno
Hi Scott, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Inside Books was started in 1998 by a group of friends who were active in prison reform in Austin. Since then, we have grown almost every year as far as our reach & the number of people we send books to. Now we are sending free books to more than 1,000 people each month in Texas prisons.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Like anything, it has not been entirely smooth. We’ve had challenges with fund raising , collective members coming and going and finding books that people need. We’ve also had to deal with and work with TX Dept. Of Corrections (TDCJ) policy & restrictions over the years.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Inside Books specializes in getting free books into the hands of people in Texas prisons. We are one of the largest prison books projects in the U.S. & pride ourselves on being able to get people the resources they need as fast as possible. What sets us apart from others is our determination & dedication in helping imprisoned people in Texas improve their situation both in prison, and upon release.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Of course, all of our community volunteers over the years deserve credit, including those who have contributed financially & kept us alive & running. Austinites in general have always come through for us – from donating needed books, to providing us community space when needed
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Insidebooksproject.org
- Instagram: Insidebooksproject
- Facebook: Insidebooksproject
