Instilling Change: Norris Wall

Norris Wall was raised on a farm in Mississippi as the son of a pastor. He grew up surrounded by family. Parents, grandparents, and great grandparents all lived in the same tight-knit community. Life was simple and structured. However, as he grew older, distance developed within his support system, and eventually, he moved to Missouri in search of something different. At the age of 19, the bright lights of the city quickly replaced the quiet life he once knew. He became drawn to a fast-paced lifestyle - clubs, drinking, chasing money, and making choices he had never made before. What Norris believed as "the life to live," actually led to a life of drug use, selling drugs, and ultimately incarceration at 23 years old.

Over time, Norris found himself in and out of prison five times. When asked about his biggest barrier to reentry, his answer was clear - fear. He feared returning to the same environment and falling back into old habits. A conversation with his cellmate led him to a sober living opportunity in Kansas City, a decision he now calls lifesaving. When he first arrived at Second Chance, he admitted he was skeptical. He wasn't used to people wanting to help him succeed. "I didn't know how to win," he shared. "I didn't believe people really wanted to see me do better." That mindset began to shift through the guidance of his Resource Specialist and participation in the classes offered by the Center for Conflict Resolution with Second Chance. For the first time, Norris began working on his inner self. The coping skills, emotional regulation tools, and open discussions helped him recognize unhealthy thought patterns and learn how to respond rather than react. He credits the classes as the most impactful component of the program.

Second Chance also provided practical support when he needed it most - food assistance, structure, accountability, and consistent encouragement. What once felt uncomfortable to accept, eventually became something he understood as a "hand up," not a hand out. Through the program, he enrolled in forklift training and continued building employment skills. Today, he holds a full-time position with a food production company, where he operates and trains others on complex machinery. What once intimidated him is now an area of confidence. Norris is now 18 months sober and continues to prioritize a simple, structured lifestyle.

His support system includes his Narcotics Anonymous sponsor, his family, and the team at Second Chance. Norris is also celebrating one year since moving to Kansas City and choosing a new path. When asked what he is most proud of, he shared that he is proud of who he has become. He has learned humility. He has learned to communicate. Most importantly, he can say today, "I love myself."

Advice Norris has for anyone facing a similar journey, "Never walk in someone else's shadow. Step out and make your own shadow. He says that if you are walking in someone else's shadow, you won't do what you need to do, but what they need to do. Step out and be your own person.