Diamond house
More than just a transitional facility; it's a symbol of resilience, strength, and the unwavering commitment to helping women soar to new heights
“Where the traumas of our lives’ become society’s solutions”
About
Diamond House offers reentry services that go beyond just helping women reintegrate into society – it empowers them to embark on a successful lifelong journey after their program.
At Diamond House, the focus is on personalized transformation. The standard program spans six months, but the length of stay is uniquely tailored to each individual's needs. We also partner with several community organizations to ensure that every woman receives the support and wraparound resources she needs to build a strong foundation for her future.
Officially opened on December 16, 2022, Diamond House was created to give women more than just a second chance—it was built to provide a hand up, not a handout, helping them reclaim independence and reshape their lives after incarceration. VOTE’s mission is to equip women with the tools, resources, and confidence to break free from systemic barriers and redefine what’s possible.
For many, the transition home is filled with uncertainty and fear of the unknown. The odds are stacked against formerly incarcerated women, with limited resources, unstable housing, and overwhelming expectations—especially for mothers who may not be able to reunite with their children immediately. Too often, women return to families unable to support them, or they have no family at all.
Diamond House is an extension of a movement that began in 1987 within the walls of Angola Prison. There, Norris Henderson and a group of civic-minded men founded the Angola Special Civics Project (ASCP), daring to dream of liberation for themselves and others. Norris’s mantra was:
“Forget your conditions and change your circumstances.”
And they did.
That same fight continues today—especially when it comes to housing. Recognizing this urgent need, VOTE created Diamond House as a safe and supportive space for women ready to start fresh. The program offers six months of housing with no overhead costs, providing wraparound services to address immediate needs.
A core part of this journey is LIFE SUPPORT, a two-week intensive program designed to help residents stabilize and build a foundation for success. Because no two journeys are the same, programming is personalized—meeting each woman where she is and ensuring she gets the support she needs at the right time.
As of today, there has been 11 women that transitioned through Diamond House:
Shantel C.
Roxelle V.
Danena W.
Tanisha J.
Cryatal S.
Deanna H.
Heather S.
Ynette J.
Regina W.
Lisa H.
Stacie P.
Every Returning Jewel who has transitioned through Diamond House is now gainfully employed—a testament to what’s possible when women are given the support they deserve. Many have secured their own apartments, reunited with their children and grandchildren, purchased vehicles, and one alumna has even become a homeowner.
This success is possible because of VOTE’s commitment to investing in people, not their past mistakes—recognizing them first and foremost as human beings. Diamond House is the embodiment of VOTE’s guiding principle:
“Those closest to the problem are closest to the solution.”
Ivy Mathis: THE Original Returning Jewel
Ivy Mathis, VOTE’s Re-Entry Specialist, embodies the power of perseverance and redemption. Sentenced to life as a child, she spent 26 years behind bars transforming her own life—and in December 2018, she made history as the first juvenile woman in Louisiana to be released on parole. Her journey is a powerful testament to resilience, proving that even in the face of immense adversity, a brighter future is possible.
When it came to naming Diamond House, Ivy saw a reflection of her own experience. Just as a diamond is shaped under pressure, she likens the traumas endured before and during incarceration to that same transformative process—where, with the right support, hidden beauty and untapped potential can finally emerge.
Danena Williams
During her 16 years of incarceration, Danena Williams refused to let adversity define her. Instead, she seized every opportunity to grow, earning an accounting degree, a cosmetology license, and multiple certifications while educating fellow incarcerated women. She co-founded the Euphoria Wellness Program and authored books, proving that even behind bars, she could build a foundation for success.
When Danena arrived at Diamond House on March 8, 2023, she started as a server at IHOP. Her relentless drive led to three promotions in just seven months, ultimately becoming the General Manager of the IHOP on South Carrollton in New Orleans. She credits VOTE and Diamond House for their support—and now, as a hiring manager, she’s paying it forward by creating opportunities for others returning home.
In July 2024, just 13 months after her release, Danena achieved another milestone: homeownership. Her journey is a powerful testament to what’s possible when formerly incarcerated women are given the support and opportunities they deserve.
Deanna Haywood
After serving 32 years of incarceration since the age of 19, Deanna Haywood sought support from VOTE for her clemency hearing. With VOTE’s advocacy, Deanna was granted clemency and released into care of the Diamond House, ready to rebuild her life with purpose.
Determined to regain her independence, one of Deanna’s first goals was obtaining her driver’s license—a milestone she has proudly achieved. And that was just the beginning. Today, she continues checking off goals on her list, proving that with the right support and determination, a fresh start is more than possible—it’s unstoppable.
Tanisha Johnson
On the ride home from prison en route to the Diamond House, Ivy Matthis asked Tanisha, “What kind of work do you want to do?”
She hesitated before answering, “Ms. Ivy, I’ve never had a job. I think I might just go back to getting my check.”
Ivy looked at her and said, “Yes, you have. You worked in prison—for free—for seven years.”
That moment changed everything. She realized that the skills she had used inside—cutting grass, operating heavy machinery—were real, valuable work. And she was ready to put them to use on her own terms.
With our support, Ms. Johnson secured a job in the field she loved. Through hard work and commitment, she thrived in VOTE’s program, set clear goals, and within just a few months, purchased her own car.
A Hand Up Not A Handout
As someone who was wrongfully incarcerated for 27 years, Norris Henderson, VOTE’s Founder and Executive Director, appreciates firsthand the experience and challenges of coming home.
Norris helped launch the Diamond House after recognizing the additional challenges women face when returning including “not having a space to be able to find themselves and figure out what their possibilities are.” He is excited to see Diamond House come to life and is dedicated to its success.
“Giving the Returning Jewels a place they can call home for up to 6 months, without overhead, is giving the women
a hand up not a handout.”
