 At the Neighborhood Christian Center where I work, we run a summer youth leadership program for high school students. Instead of spending their summer flipping burgers or filing paperwork, these teens are offered something deeper. Throughout the program, they study the Bible, hear from inspiring guest speakers, and share the Gospel with children at camps and clubs across the city.
We also prepare them for life.
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 One of the greatest joys of my life is jail ministry. Week after week, I get the privilege of diving deep into Scripture with women who are hungry for truth—women who are eager to learn, to grow, and light up with hope when they hear that Jesus hasn’t given up on them.
When we complete a study, we celebrate with a graduation. We bring in outside food and hand out certificates—something many of the women have never received before. For some, it’s the first tangible reminder that they can finish something, and that their life is not defined by what they've done, but by what God can do.  When I tell people I go to jail every week to teach a Bible study, their reactions are usually the same: “Why?” and “Why do you keep going back?” To answer, I must go back to where my faith journey was shaped—at Christ Church in Memphis, Tennessee. Growing up under the leadership of Dr. Maxie Dunnam and Dr. Bill Bouknight. I was surrounded by a strong church community where works of mercies —tangible expressions of God's justice and compassion— were just part of life. Even as a youth, I had chances to serve the underserved in our city. But truthfully, I was still in my comfort zone—always with church family, usually in groups, doing good things in safe spaces.
It wasn’t until I was married with children that I felt a clear call from the Holy Spirit—a nudge saying, “It’s time to step beyond what’s comfortable |
Ashley B. CollinsI was born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, and graduated from Auburn University (War Eagle!). In 2003, I married Brent, and we settled in Decatur, Alabama, where we’re now raising two incredible teenagers, Abby and Hudson. My heart beats for ministry—especially inside jail walls, where I’ve spent over 14 years teaching and encouraging women with the hope of Jesus. I also love renovating and designing beautiful spaces, going on mission trips, and finding purpose in both the ordinary and the unexpected. 
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