Alabama Leaders Join ABPP to Applaud Transformation of Over 60 PREP Center Graduates

By Jakiya Dudley, Media Specialist

Uniontown, Ala. – On Friday, The Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles partnered with J.F. Ingram State Technical College, state legislators, and representatives from the Perry County commission to honor the newest group of more than 60 PREP Center graduates. The total number of graduates from the Perry County PREP Center is now approaching 300 since its opening in April 2022. Among those graduates, 0% of participants have returned to prison. The PREP program offers comprehensive reentry and rehabilitation support to probationers and parolees across the state.

Alabama State Senator Robert Stewart highlighted the importance of continuously developing yourself. He inspired the graduates to not stop on their rehabilitation journey. “This is just one chapter of a much longer book of your life,” Senator Stewart said. “You are greater than the worst thing you’ve ever done. Your growth is what makes our state a better place.”

“Life will try to knock you down, but you have to get back up,” said Bureau Director Cam Ward. “Today’s graduation symbolizes that each of you got back up.” He shared that ABPP believes success is not just about offering second chances, but also providing the active support and resources needed for individuals to get up.

PREP Center Graduate Claude Campbell gave his personal testament of the program, “I’m excited to use the tools, training, and education I’ve received throughout the program.” He expressed his deep appreciation for the opportunity and guidance. He encouraged his fellow graduates to maintain their freedom as they all embark on new journeys.

David Burch, representing the GEO Group, expressed the organization’s gratitude for being entrusted with the opportunity to make meaningful differences in the lives of the program participants. He emphasized that the work of the PREP Center extends beyond traditional rehabilitation efforts, focusing more on equipping individuals with the skills and resources needed to succeed after the program.

ISTC Dean of Instructions Dr. William Young provided an inspiring and creative metaphor, comparing the graduates’ journeys to the intricate silk-spinning process of a moth. He explained that while butterflies often capture the world’s admiration, the moth’s process of transformation is a testament to resilience, hard work, and creating something of lasting value. “Much like the moth, each of you have endured a process that has made you stronger and capable of success.”

Board Member Darryl Littleton congratulated the graduates and provided a message of hope and empowerment. “By enduring this program, you have proven to yourselves and your families that you are career ready and mentally ready to succeed. We want each of you to do just that.” Fellow Board Member Gabrelle Simmons shared how the Board recognized the potential in each graduate and encouraged them to lean on their resources going forward. “We are proud of you and most importantly, you all should be proud of yourselves,” Simmons said.

Opened on April 21, 2022, the PREP Center encourages incarceration diversion as a sanction response and is an option for justice-involved individuals to receive support services and resolve barriers to successful reintegration. The primary program providers at the PREP Center are GEO Group under the advisement of the Alabama Department of Mental Health, J.F. Ingram State Technical College, and Alabama Power.

A video of the event can be accessed here: https://www.youtube.com/live/63Ib6L3zusI